Martin mayor, two city employees indicted for misuse of over $450,000

An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office has revealed misuse of more than $450,000 in public funds in the City of Martin by the mayor, his daughter, and another city employee.

The findings led to the indictment on Monday of Mayor Randy Brundige, Director of Economic and Community Development Brad Thompson, and former city employee Natalie Brundige.

The comptroller's investigation included city records between 2015 and 2025. Mayor Brundige was elected in 2002; Thompson was hired in 2012; and Natalie Brundige was hired full-time in 2018.

Investigators determined that Mayor Brundige misappropriated more than $10,900 by using his city-issued credit card for unauthorized travel and meal expenses. The investigation found that Brundige and Thompson frequently dined at high-end restaurants, including multiple steakhouse meals costing hundreds of dollars and including alcohol purchases, while traveling on city business.

The investigation also revealed that Thompson misappropriated more than $273,000. Thompson purportedly owned a company called One Consulting which worked with the city to perform grant-writing and administrative services that were already part of his official duties. He also made unauthorized credit card purchases and used city funds for luxury travel, including first-class airfare to Italy and a private dinner prepared by a personal chef.

Natalie Brundige, daughter of the mayor, was a custodian at the Martin police department. She improperly received at least $174,000 in unearned salary, leave, and benefits. Security footage and other evidence showed she routinely worked only about two hours of her scheduled eight-hour shifts, but was paid as a full-time employee for more than six years.

Based upon the investigation, the Weakley County Grand Jury indicted all three for several counts of official misconduct and theft of property over $60,000. Mayor Brundige and Thompson were additionally indicted for theft of property over $10,000.

Each of the three turned themselves into the Weakley County Detention Center in Dresden Tuesday and each bonded out on a $25,000 bond.


Photos: Randy Brundige; Brad Thompson; Natalie Brundige  (Martin Police Dept.)