Ex-Noxubee County Sheriff Faces Prison Time for False Statements
Terry Grassaree, the former sheriff of Noxubee County, Mississippi, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to providing false information to the FBI. The charges stem from an investigation into Grassaree’s alleged inappropriate conduct with a female inmate.
Social Media Used to Initiate Contact
According to the indictment filed in 2022, Grassaree used Facebook in March 2019 to solicit a video from a female inmate incarcerated at the Noxubee County jail. The indictment further details that Grassaree subsequently received multiple nude photos from the inmate on the same day. Prosecutors allege Grassaree responded favorably to the photos, sending messages such as “I like it” and “Body looks perfect.”
Obstruction of Justice Through Deception
Prosecutors allege that during a July 2020 FBI interview, Grassaree lied about requesting nude photos and videos from the inmate. They believe his intent was to obstruct the investigation into his conduct and the treatment of detainees at the Noxubee County jail.
Reduced Charges and Upcoming Sentencing
Originally facing multiple charges, including wire fraud and tampering with evidence, Grassaree pleaded guilty to the single charge of making false statements. This carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for August 7th, 2024.
Former Deputy Faces Similar Charges
Vance Phillips, a former deputy under Grassaree, pleaded guilty in 2023 to using interstate commerce to facilitate bribery. He awaits sentencing on charges that could result in up to five years of imprisonment.
The guilty plea of Terry Grassaree marks a significant development in a case that has raised concerns about potential misconduct and abuse of power within the Noxubee County jail system.
