Trenton Commissioner Charles Wayne Cannon
A Trenton, Ga., commissioner was arrested Sunday after getting into a fight with a lifelong friend.
Trenton police charged 36-year-old Commissioner Chuck Cannon with simple battery about 9 p.m. Sunday, booking reports show.
But police say the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been asked to step in to avoid a conflict of interest.
Trenton Detective Shawn Chapa declined to comment on the case, citing an open investigation. He said the arrest report wouldn't be completed until today.
But Cannon, who was released from Dade County Jail on a $2,500 bond Monday afternoon, said he regrets what happened.
"It was very unfortunate," said Cannon, when reached by telephone. "I accept my responsibility."
Cannon said he and his lifelong friend, whom he didn't name, got into an argument Sunday night and started to fight. Cannon said there was no alcohol involved.
He declined to comment on whether he would resign from the City Commission. He is serving his third term as the city's parks and recreation commissioner and is a registered nurse.
Trenton Mayor Barton Harris said the commission won't take any action until the GBI finishes its investigation.
"Until the investigation is complete, nothing has changed," Harris said.
GBI special agent Dan Simms said he couldn't give a date when the inquiry would be finished.
Contact Joy Lukachick at jlukachick@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6659.