KNOXVILLE, TN (WOKI) – Eleven defendants charged in one of the most significant alleged public corruption cases in Knox County Sheriff’s Office history are expected back in court Tuesday morning for a motions hearing.
The case centers on allegations that current and former Knox County Sheriff’s Office employees, along with a civilian defendant, improperly used sheriff’s office funds, equipment and resources for personal gain. The allegations date back to actions that occurred prior to 2018.
Those charged face a range of offenses, including conspiracy to commit theft of property over $250,000, theft of property over $250,000 and theft of services.
Defense Expects Favorable Outcome
Attorney T. Scott Jones, who represents some of the defendants, said Monday that the defense team is optimistic about the outcome of Tuesday’s hearing.
“We are very confident that there should be a complete resolution tomorrow favorable to the defendants,” Jones said.
Jones also criticized the prosecution, arguing investigators and prosecutors delayed action for years after obtaining information related to the case.
Motions to Suppress Statements
Tuesday’s hearing is the first court appearance for the group since four defendants filed motions seeking to suppress statements they previously made during the investigation.
Those defendants are:
- Former Chief of Detectives David Amburn
- Captain James Hammond
- Former Sergeant Lake Lowry
- Former Detective Curtis Cole
The court is expected to hold an additional hearing Wednesday to consider those requests.
Allegations in the Case
Investigators and court records allege the group diverted funds that had been seized and intended for sheriff’s office use. Prosecutors contend those funds were used to purchase items including laptops, iPads and other personal property.
Several defendants are also accused of using Knox County Sheriff’s Office vehicles, equipment and employee time for personal purposes.
Defendants Named in the Case
The 11 defendants include:
- David Henderson, retired KCSO assistant chief deputy
- James “J.J.” Jones, former Knox County sheriff
- David Amburn, assistant KCSO chief deputy
- Aaron Yarnell, KCSO captain
- Curtis Nathan Cole, former KCSO narcotics detective
- Lake Lowry, former KCSO sergeant
- Franklin “Rocky” Lowery, KCSO lieutenant
- Tim Isaacs, KCSO sergeant
- John Hopkins, retired KCSO captain
- James Hammond, KCSO captain
- Mike Kidd, civilian
Long-Running Case
The case has drawn significant attention because of the number of current and former law enforcement officials involved and the allegations that public funds and resources were misused.
Tuesday’s hearing could provide a clearer picture of how the case will proceed and whether any of the charges could ultimately be dismissed or moved toward trial.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
