KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – A member of the Knox County Board of Zoning Appeals has been cited for misdemeanor assault following an altercation at a political forum held earlier this month in downtown Knoxville.
According to a Knoxville Police Department report, the incident occurred during an event hosted by Heritage Hubs Knoxville at Jackson Terminal. The organization describes itself as a group focused on connecting young conservatives and is raising funds to purchase property in the Fort Sanders area.
Police said the victim, identified as William Wilson, provided video footage of the encounter. Officers who reviewed the video reported it showed board member David Moody intentionally striking a cell phone from Wilson’s hand.
According to the police report, officers also observed a small abrasion beneath Wilson’s right eye that was consistent with being struck in the face.
Investigators interviewed two witnesses. One witness told officers the events occurred as Wilson described. A second witness, who was working security for the event, said Wilson approached a table while using profane language and appeared aggressive. The security worker also told officers he observed Moody strike Wilson while knocking an object from his hand.
Police later located Moody inside the venue. According to the report, Moody acknowledged being involved in the incident but declined to provide a statement.
Moody was issued a misdemeanor assault citation on October 10.
Commissioner Seeking Hearing on Board Membership
In the aftermath of the incident, Knox County Commissioner Brandon Huckaby called for a special hearing where county commissioners would consider whether Moody should continue serving on the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Huckaby said Moody would have an opportunity to present his side of the story before any decision is made.
The commissioner also said he learned of the incident shortly after arriving at the event and expressed concerns about the conduct of a county-appointed board member.
Event Draws Political Controversy
The forum drew attendance from several public officials, including Knox County Commissioner Andy Fox and State Representative Monty Fritts.
The event has since become the center of broader political debate.
In a statement, Heritage Hubs Knoxville defended its mission and accused protesters of attempting to disrupt the gathering. The organization said it exists to provide a place for young conservatives to meet and host events.
Meanwhile, the Southern Resistance Coalition criticized the group, alleging it promotes anti-immigrant views and “remigration” policies. The organization stated that “hate has no home in Knoxville.”
State Representative Gloria Johnson also criticized Heritage Hubs Knoxville on social media, calling it a “hate group” and accusing the organization of promoting racist views.
According to its website, Heritage Hubs Knoxville is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that describes itself as serving young conservatives.
WVLT reported it had reached out to Moody and Fritts for comment.
No court date has been announced for the assault citation.
