THP trooper pulled from gubernatorial race after leaking information

A state trooper has been pulled from the gubernatorial campaign after leaking information from the Karl Dean campaign to the Bill Lee campaign, authorities say.

The Tennessean in Nashville is reporting a Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper has been pulled from providing security after violating a nondisclosure agreement.

According to the paper, the trooper in question worked security detail for both candidates but was pulled from the job for revealing details of Democrat Karl Dean's schedule to Republican Bill Lee's campaign.

According to The Tennessean, Tennessee Highway Patrol memos reportedly said Dean would be stopping at a "Muslim event". The Lee campaign then asked another trooper whether his staff could obtain a photo of Dean in a mosque.

The event in question, however, took place September 7 at Yassin's Falafel House and was not a religious event.

In a statement from Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner David W. Purkey, the trooper has been suspended.

“After becoming aware of the allegations in the complaint, the colonel immediately removed this trooper from the protective detail and ordered an internal inquiry by the department's Inspectional Services Bureau," said Purkey in a statement.

"The review determined that the trooper’s action violated confidentiality agreements signed earlier by all troopers assigned to the protective details. As commissioner, I disciplined the trooper, including a suspension, and he’s been removed from any further details. I have apologized to both campaigns for the trooper’s actions as we continue to ensure the safety of the nominees.”