Tami Sawyer

Tami Sawyer, serving as Shelby County General Sessions Court Clerk since August 2024, is currently facing a six-count federal indictment for theft, fraud, and money laundering. Prosecutors allege she embezzled $44,607.35 in public funds between August 2024 and June 2025 by using county procurement and travel cards for personal expenses, including alcohol, restaurants, and event tickets. The indictment also describes a money-laundering scheme involving transfers to a co-conspirator via PayPal and CashApp. If convicted, she faces up to 20 years in prison and $500,000 in fines. Previously, Sawyer faced a $1 million wrongful termination lawsuit filed in November 2025 by her former Chief Administrative Officer, who alleged he was fired for refusing to approve improper expenditures. In October 2025, she also faced calls for resignation following the release of body camera footage showing a confrontation with deputies at a courthouse security checkpoint and reports of a whistleblower's misconduct claims. Sawyer has pleaded not guilty to the federal charges and remains under standard bond conditions.