Investigation launched into controversial police entry and arrest

An internal affairs investigation has been launched following a controversial incident involving deputies responding to a vandalism complaint on Log Cabin Road on September 4, 2024. The investigation centers on the actions of Deputy E. Letterman, Deputy B. Peterson, and Sergeant Gray during their encounter with a female resident, who is accused of damaging a camper previously owned by her ex-husband.

The ex-husband reported that his ex-wife had sent him photos of damage to the camper tires, which he believed was intentionally caused. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies observed damage estimated at approximately $4,000. However, the female resident refused to exit her home to speak with the deputies, insisting on communicating via phone and demanding they leave her property.

Sergeant Gregg, who arrived on the scene later, attempted to gain entry into the home using a lock-picking kit, ultimately gaining access after approximately eight minutes. The female was found in the bathtub and resisted arrest, leading to a confrontation with family members who arrived and became aggressive towards the officers.

The investigation revealed that the deputies could not provide valid probable cause for the arrest, despite the initial belief that felony vandalism had occurred. Body camera footage indicated that the deputies had considered obtaining an arrest warrant but later decided against it, citing the felony nature of the alleged crime as justification for a warrantless arrest.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the district attorney's office have since decided not to pursue charges against the female resident, stating that no charges were warranted. Sheriff Sexton has expressed his belief that wrongdoing occurred during the incident, leaving the matter for further review by the department.

Questions remain regarding the decision-making process that led to the warrantless entry and arrest, with some officials questioning the necessity of such actions given the nature of the complaint. The female resident's case is still pending, with a hearing scheduled for September 30.