Deputy faces a host of federal drug charges

A Tennessee sheriff’s deputy tasked with drug enforcement is now facing the same charges as those he once helped to put away.

According to authorities, an informant implicated the deputy. In exchange for a reduction of charges, the informant worked with FBI agents to catch the deputy in the act. The FBI agents observed the informant and the deputy coordinating security for a staged drug drop, including a phone call between the two and a payment of $400.

According to the informant, this fake drug drop was typical of other drug deals, where the deputy would provide security in a marked vehicle while the informant dropped of the controlled substances. The deputy was typically paid several hundred dollars after each drop.

Although the deputy may not have used or possessed drugs, his participation in drug dealing, by way of providing security and cover to the dealers, has resulted in a host of federal drug trafficking and gun violations charges. A federal grand jury recently indicted the deputy, and criminal trial preparations are underway. If convicted, the deputy may face up to five years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $1.25 million.

Although a criminal defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a standard of beyond a reasonable doubt, the social consequences of an arrest can be immediate. In this case, the deputy was fired for conduct unbecoming an officer after his arrest. Our criminal defense law firm works hard to contain the impact of an arrest upon a defendant’s future. We also offer a free consultation with prospective clients.

Source: WREG, “Crockett County deputy indicted on federal drug trafficking charged while on-duty,” Shay Arthur and George Brown, Feb. 22, 2017