Monroe County sheriff's employees indicted after inmate worked at private business

June 18, 2026 - 23:37

A Tennessee Comptroller investigation has resulted in criminal charges against two Monroe County Sheriff's Department employees for allegedly using an inmate to perform work at a private business. The case centers on accusations that the employees directed a county inmate to provide labor for a for-profit company, a practice that violates state laws governing the use of inmate workers.

The investigation revealed that the inmate was taken from the county jail and put to work at the private business, which is not authorized under Tennessee law. Inmate labor is typically restricted to public works projects or government-run programs, not for the benefit of private enterprises. The two employees now face indictments for official misconduct and related charges.

State auditors found that the arrangement went beyond a simple oversight. The inmate was reportedly transported to the business location and performed tasks that directly benefited the company's operations. The Comptroller's office flagged the situation during a routine audit of the sheriff's department, leading to a deeper probe.

Both employees have been placed on leave pending the outcome of the legal proceedings. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office has stated it is cooperating fully with the investigation. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the misuse of inmate labor in local corrections facilities. The indictment serves as a reminder that such actions carry serious legal consequences for public officials.