Helton, who once served as a judge in East Ridge, was taken into custody on September 28th in Panama City Beach, Florida. According to a criminal complaint analyzed by Law & Crime, Helton faced charges for making a written threat to kill or inflict bodily harm. The accusations stem from a midnight text sent that same day, reportedly showing a “large black and silver kitchen knife,” accompanied by the chilling words, “I take that back, I will kill both of you first.”

The threatening message was sent to a group chat involving Helton, his wife, and her friend, as detailed in the police report. Helton’s wife, understandably shaken, expressed to authorities her fear for her life and her urgent desire to distance herself from her husband following the ominous communication.

This incident has cast a spotlight on the former judge’s actions, with the backdrop of East Ridge City Hall in Tennessee highlighting the contrast between his past role and his current legal troubles. The case continues to unfold as more details emerge about the events leading to Helton’s arrest.

Police said in the complaint that Helton sent the message to a group text that included him, his wife, and her friend. Helton”s wife told police that she feared for her life and “did not want to be close” to her husband after she received the alleged threat.

The complaint did not include any context for why the message was sent or if the couple had a history of threats and violence. The full text allegedly sent by Helton read, “I take that back I will kill both of you first. Don’t forget she knows your worth.”

When police spoke to Helton, he answered questions after being read his rights. During the interview, Helton admitted to sending the photo and the message. Police noted in the complaint that the photo depicted the kitchen knife lying on Helton’s lap. When Helton was interviewed, he was wearing “the same color of pants and shirt” that he was wearing in the photo in question.

Helton was arrested on Sept. 28 and charged with sending a written threat to kill or do bodily harm. He was booked into jail on $50,000 bond, which he posted on Sept. 30. Helton was ordered not to contact his wife. His arraignment is scheduled for Nov. 3.