But in Clay County, Sheriff Scott remains in power even after repeated allegations of misconduct. In multiple interviews, including one on camera with reporters, Sheriff Scott, now 58, has denied harassing women, coercing them into sex or retaliating against anyone. Sheriff Scott has covered his office walls with images of John Wayne, whom the sheriff considers his hero. In sworn testimony last month, Sheriff Scott declined to say whether he had ever had sex with Ms. Jones, citing his Fifth Amendment right to avoid self-incrimination. Sheriff Scott posed the women together and snapped a photo from behind, according to Ms. Jones.

Source: New York Times July 19, 2023 21:23 UTC