05/01/2026
Man sentenced in December 2025 Evading Arrest that Resulted in the Death of a Law Enforcement Officer.
In December of 2025, Blount County Sheriff’s Deputy Justin Mowery attempted stop a motorcycle traveling recklessly at a very high rate of speed. The motorcycle began passing motorists in the wrong lane of travel and Deputy Mowery activated his emergency equipment and successfully pursued the motorcyclist. When it became clear that the motorcyclist was running from him, he began to use his radio to relay to fellow officers that the individual was evading in a reckless manner. The cruiser lost control and Deputy Mowery was killed in the resulting crash. I thorough investigation by the Blount County Sheriff’s Office was successful in identifying the operator of motorcycle.
Today, Defendant Dalton Michael Bowman was sentenced to 20 years in TDOC custody for evading arrest that resulted in the death of Deputy Mowery. Mowery’s mother provided an emotional victim impact statement to the court, expressing incredible grace and encouraging the defendant to use this as a chance to build a relationship with Christ.
District Attorney General Ryan Desmond provided the following statement:
“Deputy Justin Mowery gave his life in the service of this community, dedicating each day to the safety and protection of his neighbors and friends. The incredible compassion and grace exhibited by Justin's mother, brother and all of those who loved him are a clear illustration of the very best humanity has to offer this world.
Justin's sacrifice in the line of duty has forever changed this community, and he will always serve as an example why Blount County loves and supports its law enforcement family.
Running from law enforcement in a vehicle is incredibly dangerous and foolish, imperiling the lives of law enforcement, defendants, and innocent motorists.”
