SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — A Sevier County Sheriff’s Office corrections officer was arrested and fired after supervisors determined he consumed alcohol while attending a Seymour football game in a county-issued transport vehicle, according to Sheriff Michael R. Hodges Jr.
Hodges said corrections officer Scottie Vineyard attended the game in a county-issued transport vehicle while wearing an SCSO polo shirt displaying a badge insignia and carrying a firearm.
Near the end of the game, an individual who had contact with Vineyard reported detecting the odor of alcohol. Sheriff’s Office supervisors were immediately notified and responded to the scene, according to Hodges.
Following an investigation, supervisors determined Vineyard had consumed alcohol while at the game, the sheriff said.
Vineyard was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Sevier County Jail. He was charged with public intoxication and possession of a handgun while under the influence.
Hodges said Vineyard’s employment with the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office was terminated immediately.
In a statement, Hodges praised the supervisors who responded and investigated the incident.
“Our supervisors did exactly what I expect of every member of this agency,” Hodges said. “They responded immediately, investigated the facts and made the arrest as the circumstances warranted it.”
Hodges apologized to Sevier County residents for Vineyard’s conduct and said he was “extremely disappointed and embarrassed.”
The sheriff emphasized that the actions of one employee do not represent the entire agency or the standards expected of its employees.
“Every single one of our employees understands that accountability is not optional,” Hodges said. “No one, including me, will be exempt from the standards the people of Sevier County have every right to expect.”
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