Hardin’s daughter’s female friend, also 18, confirmed the teen’s story, as did the friend’s mother. Both women witnessed the incident. However, neither woman testified before the grand jury, Cummins said.

According to Wright’s affidavit, Hardin identified himself as being a police officer three times. Hardin is a former Marion County sheriff’s deputy and Anderson police officer, but no longer works in law enforcement. Hardin denied telling Wright he is an officer.

“I told him I am a former police officer,” Hardin said. “I didn’t tell him that.”

Also according to court documents Hardin also told Wright that Wright could not arrest him because he is an officer and serves as a county commissioner. Hardin denied saying that as well.

“I can only say that’s not the truth,” the commissioner said. “I did not make that statement.

“I didn’t say he couldn’t arrest me,” he continued. “I wasn’t trying to make any power play or anything like that.”

Hardin, a Democrat, is in his first term representing the county’s Middle District on the Board of Commissioners. He served on the Madison County Council from 1992 through 2008.

Hardin said he appreciated the support he said he and his family received following his arrest.

“We were just in what we were doing,” he said. “I’m just grateful for all the community, the parents and family and friends who have supported me and my family.”

Contact Shawn McGrath: 640-4883, shawn.mcgrath@heraldbulletin.com

What’s next?

Madison County Commissioner Jeff Hardin will make an initial court appearance on a single charge of misdemeanor disorderly conduct at a later date. His arraignment in Madison Circuit Court has not yet been scheduled.