DeWitt County Board member Terry Hoffman has posted $1,000 bond after being jailed on felony battery charges. (Photo courtesy DeWitt County Jail). 

By Eric Stock 

CLINTON - A new DeWitt County Board member said he was suprised that sheriff's deputies came to his home to arrest him on Wednesday following an incident with the county's emergency managment director.

Terry Hoffman, 55, of Moroa said he had a friendly visit with EMA director Teresa Barnett in her office earlier in the day. Hoffman said he did poke her upper arm which was intended as a friendly, conciliatory gesture.

"At no time in discussion were harsh words exchanged," Hoffman said in a statement e-mailed to the media.

Hoffman said they were discussing the stress of emergency procedures and the bureaucracy for which she is responsible. 

Hoffman called his visit a 'get-acquainted' meeting with Barnett as Hoffman is a new board member, but he said he and his wife have known Barnett since grade school.

Hoffman was booked at the DeWitt County Jail on two counts of aggravated battery. He posted $1,000 bond for his release on Thursday.  

WJBC has contacted Barnett for reaction. 

Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.