KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Eleven former Knox County Sheriff’s Office employees were indicted May 13 on charges of conspiracy to commit theft, theft of property over $250,000 and theft of services over $60,000. The charges stem from alleged conduct between January 2011 and September 2018, according to the indictment.
The TBI said that, after evidence was presented, a Knox County grand jury indicted the following people on charges of criminal conspiracy to commit theft of property over $250,000, theft of property over $250,000 and theft of services over $60,000:
- David Henderson, retired KCSO assistant chief deputy
- James “J.J.” Jones, former KCSO 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
The indictment alleges that the defendants used the KCSO narcotics credit card and seized cash fund to make unauthorized purchases for personal benefit. Purchases included construction materials, tools and equipment, security cameras, coolers, Apple products, automotive supplies and parts, hunting equipment, welding materials, and mechanic equipment.
Personal projects on duty
According to the indictment from Knox County court, the defendants completed personal projects while on duty using KCSO resources and equipment.
The indictment alleges Kidd received a camera system purchased with the KCSO Narcotics Credit Card. Franklin Lowery and an unindicted co-conspirator installed the system while on duty. Co-conspirators also completed work on Kidd’s pool, including installing a pool liner, while on duty…