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Sussex supervisor has day in court

Posted at 8:03 PM, Jan 16, 2013
and last updated 2013-01-16 20:03:45-05

SUSSEX COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) -- Rufus Tyler walked out of the Sussex County Courthouse, Wednesday afternoon, still the chairman of the Board of Supervisors.

A recall effort by voters in his district led to his court appearance.

 Tyler was accused of changing the minutes of special meeting on Dec. 3, which lasted less than three minutes, where the county administrator was fired. 

Tyler maintains his innocence while supporters call the proceedings racially motivated -- and a witch hunt.

However, other supervisors disagree.

Some citizens and three board members believe the board of supervisors is at an impasse since few discussions are taking place and meeting often ten being shut down by Sheriff Raymond Bell, they're at a loss.

With the County administrator being fired, there was no deputy administrator to take over, so by law Tyler in charge.

Some argue the county has all but shut down. In fact, state leaders are no longer talking with them because they believe the county government to be dysfunctional.

One supervisor said the county learned last week that 82 jobs has been lost after a $30-40 million company opted not to relocate to Sussex because of inaction in the county.

Tyler is due back in court on Jan. 31.