‘Savanna’s Law’ set to take effect in January, creating Tennessee domestic violence offender registry
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — State lawmakers are working to ensure victims of domestic violence are protected as "Savanna's law" goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026. The law is named after Savanna Puckett, a Middle Tennessee deputy killed by her ex-boyfriend in 2022. The killer had a history of arrests for domestic assault.
After 14 months, Helene-damaged road near Poga, Elk Mills open again
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated towns across northeast Tennessee. The small, rural communities of Elk Mills and Poga in Carter County became even more isolated when the Elk River severely damaged nearby parts of U.S. Route 321. The section of 321 in the Elk Mills/Poga area was reopened to locals...
Watchdog agency unexpectedly drops into Property Assessor’s Office
Members of the state's watchdog agency made a lengthy visit to the Knox County Property Assessor's Office on Dec. 4, Knox News has learned. The property assessor determines the value of commercial, residential and personal property and passes that information along to the county trustee, who collects property taxes...
Knoxville man faces up to 25 years in prison after aggravated rape, assault conviction
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Prosecutors have secured convictions against a 29-year-old Knoxville man who now faces up to 25 years in prison for rape and assault. District Attorney General Charme Allen announced Thursday that Deangelo Rogers, 29, has been convicted of aggravated rape, aggravated assault, and assault. He...
Christian charter school sues Knox County school board over state’s ban on religious charter...
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Editor's Note: WBIR first said that Wilboreforce Academy of Knoxville applied and was denied from becoming a charter school. Wilboreforce Academy has only sent a letter of intent to become a charter school, and no application has been sent. The Wilboreforce Academy of Knoxville, a possible...
Knox County school board to push back on Tennessee bill forcing immigration tracking in...
During Monday’s board of education work session, the Knox County school board polished its list of proposed priorities for 2026.
Two Arrested for Reckless Homicide in Infant’s Death in Anderson County
The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of Payton N. Bridges, 28, Dutch Valley Rd. Clinton and James G. Cain, 28, Dutch Valley Rd. Clinton in connection with a July 2024 investigation involving the death of an infant child in the Dutch Valley community. On Tuesday, December 2nd,...
ReLAUNCH is set to open 24/7 operations for unhoused in downtown Knoxville
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — ReLAUNCH, a nonprofit dedicated to its goal of achieving functional zero homelessness in Knoxville, is taking charge as winter approaches. The team of passionate individuals is working towards a 24/7 operation to help the unhoused population in downtown Knoxville. "ReLAUNCH really wants to come in...
Bust in Farragut area nets guns, drugs and ammo, court documents say
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Officers found several weapons and drugs during a bust in the Farragut area, according to court documents obtained by WVLT News. It happened around 6:20 p.m. Tuesday, the documents said, when officers responded to Walton Circle. There, the documents said officers found the following:. Five...
Tracking rain, snow and a wintry mix on the way
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -Clouds work in with a passing sprinkle or flurry possible. Remaining chilly with light winds. THURSDAY: Clouds thicken throughout the day with a small chance for a spotty shower or flurries during the day. The bulk of any activity will work in late day. Highs in the upper 30s to low 40s....
