Ex-TN Senator Eric Stewart booked on charges in Franklin County

photo Eric Stewart

Former state Sen. Eric Stewart has been arrested in Franklin County on theft and fraud charges stemming from his insurance business, according to court records and officials.

According to Franklin County Circuit Court records, Stewart was charged Monday on a two-count indictment with theft over $500 and committing a fraudulent insurance act during the period between Nov. 22, 2009 and Nov. 4, 2013.

Stewart was booked after turning himself in at the Franklin County jail and released on bond with a court appearance scheduled for Nov. 15 in Franklin County.

Court records identify the victim in the case as Don and Bonnie Plattenburg, a couple whom 12th Judicial District Attorney General Mike Taylor said entrusted Stewart with providing them with workman's comp insurance for their company.

Even though the Plattenburgs had paid for coverage, Taylor said state contractor licensing officials found their company was not covered and alerted the victims.

Taylor said the case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation then turned back over to state officials for prosecution.

Stewart unsuccessfully ran for Congress against U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, R-Tenn.

Contact staff writer Ben Benton at bbenton@timesfreepress.combbenton@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6569.

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