Full Notification

Yesterday, on behalf of Clayton County SHERIFF LEVON ALLEN, the law firm of Chilivis Grubman filed a lawsuit in Clayton County Superior Court against the Clayton County Board of Commissioners.

As outlined in the complaint, the Board of Commissioners is actively attempting to usurp SHERIFF ALLEN'S constitutional authority and arbitrarily control the Sheriff’s budget, to the detriment of the people of Clayton County.  In addition to seeking a court order prohibiting the Board of Commissioners from unlawfully restricting the Sheriff’s control over his own budget, the complaint also seeks an order requiring the Board to adequately fund the Clayton County Detention Center. 

It brings SHERIFF ALLEN no joy to bring this lawsuit. Since assuming office in December 2022, SHERIFF ALLEN has done everything he can to fulfill his duties to maintain public safety and operate a secure jail. However, without funding from the Board of Commissioners, SHERIFF ALLEN can only do so much. For years, SHERIFF ALLEN has implored the Board to adequately fund his department to ensure the safety of jail staff and detainees. Despite SHERIFF ALLEN'S numerous attempts to convince the Board to do the right thing, it has refused, even in light of an independent assessment – paid for by the Board – that concluded that the jail was inadequately staffed. It is the Board’s abdication of its duty that has forced the Sheriff’s hand and resulted in this lawsuit. 

SHERIFF ALLEN is motivated to move this matter through litigation as quickly and efficiently as possible, so that he can obtain the funding that he needs to continue to keep the people of Clayton County safe.