Security Threats Surged at Rutherford County DSS During Shutdown, Report Shows

The Rutherford County Department of Social Services (DSS) board met on Wednesday as a newly obtained report revealed a month marked by threats, volatile encounters, and safety concerns at DSS facilities. The incidents occurred in October during the 43-day federal government shutdown, which strained food assistance programs and heightened tensions among clients.

The DSS board is chaired by Leon Godlock. Other members include Suzanne Porter, David Herndon, Georgia Steele, and Sydney Pellegrini. County Commission Chairman Bryan King, who previously held a seat on the board, quietly stepped down earlier this year.

According to Apex Security, the contracted provider for DSS, their officers handled 13 calls for service, logged four security concerns, and responded to one trespass incident while completing 164 security and parking-lot rounds last month.

A Rutherford County Sheriff’s Deputy also does civil processing work with DSS under an MOU (memorandum of understanding), outlining key responsibilities. The MOU recently went through a revision. A document showing the changes was not included in the public meeting agenda.

The report described several serious incidents:

Threats to Staff

One client threatened to kill a DSS employee over a food stamp card dispute, prompting a police report and requiring security to escort the worker to and from her vehicle for the rest of the day. Another caller made threats toward staff over the phone, with officers warning him he “would be arrested” if he came to the building. Security was also tasked with monitoring clients upset about reductions to their food assistance.

Search for a Potentially Armed Individual

Security assisted the sheriff’s office in searching for a person believed to be armed with a handgun on the DSS campus. After searching multiple buildings, officers found the individual unarmed, and he left without incident.

Unruly and Juvenile-Related Incidents

Security responded to juveniles damaging property at the Lighthouse at Building D, which was built with grant funds awarded by Dogwood Health Trust to ensure that foster children have a safe place to sleep instead of in DSS offices. Officers also responded to multiple intoxicated or irate clients at other DSS facilities. County officials had a ribbon-cutting in May for the Lighthouse. 

Building Vulnerabilities

Officers reported finding an unsecured office door and a bent fence gate at the Lighthouse building. 

DSS buildings do not have security cameras, officials have said at previous public meetings. It is unclear why Rutherford County Manager Steve Garrison has not budgeted for them, according to a WCAB News review of previous public meetings and public records. 

In anticipation of potential unrest tied to the shutdown, Apex Security, DSS staff, and the sheriff’s office developed a plan to control access to the campus and maintain safety for employees and visitors. No arrests were made in connection with the incidents. 

During the meeting, DSS Director Dee Hunt said she is continuing to advocate for clients and employees to have a safe environment.