Knox County Sheriff’s Office captain among those indicted in years-long investigation

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - A Knox County Sheriff’s Office captain is among 11 current and former sheriff’s office staff members indicted for conspiracy to defraud, his attorney, Bryan Delius, said in a statement.

Captain Aaron Yarnell is among those indicted. He serves as the head of the sheriff’s office’s technology division and has a decades-long career at KCSO. While no law enforcement officials have confirmed any details — KCSO released a brief statement and the TBI refused to comment — Delius said the indictment stems from a federal investigation eight years ago.

Delius also touted Yarnell’s innocence, saying no charges were brought upon the captain years ago during the original investigation.

“I am deeply honored to represent Aaron Yarnell,” said Delius, “he has dedicated more than 30 years of his life to serving the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the people of Knox County.”

Sheriff Tom Spangler released basic information Wednesday night, saying five current KCSO employees were facing indictments stemming from “a years-long investigation that predates my election as sheriff in 2018.” Spangler said the employees had been placed on leave.

Spangler, who included in his statement “I will cooperate fully with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to ensure a thorough and transparent process,” and other KCSO officials refused to share any details or the identities of those involved.