McCroskey, top aide to each get $10,000 in unused sick leave pay

Joy McCroskey

Former Knox County Criminal Court Clerk Joy McCroskey will receive $10,000 from the county for unused sick leave she accrued before taking office more than five years ago.

The payment stems from a county policy that took effect in July 2013. So far, 26 employees have been paid a combined $148,850.

McCroskey opted not to seek re-election. Her last day was Aug. 29.

In addition, her chief deputy, Janice Norman, whose last day on the job also was Aug. 29, will get $10,000.

Two other retiring deputy clerks – Judy Yardley and Janice Short – also will receive $1,700 and $567, respectively, under the policy.

County Mayor Tim Burchett and newly sworn-in Criminal Court Clerk Mike Hammond are not happy about it. Burchett says it's possible officials might revisit the policy, and Hammond says the money will come out of his budget, which means, he'll have to cut something.

The complete story RIGHT SMACK HERE.