Grainger County Sheriffs Office

06/22/2026

Media Release:
6/22/2026

On June 19 2026 at approximately 8:42 pm Grainger County Communications District received a 911 call in reference to an individual that had been shot at the Williams Creek TWRA Access also known as Lays Bridge. Upon arrival by Grainger County Sheriff’s Dept. deputies at 8:50 pm a white male was found on the ground apparently deceased from gunshot wounds. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was notified and assisted with the scene processing and evidence collection. Tennessee Bureau of Investigation continues to assist with the investigation. The deceased male was identified as Billy Niceley (age 60) of Washburn TN.

During the course of the investigation so far it has been determined that a large group of people were gathered in the parking area and roadway when they were approached by the victim. According to witnesses the victim and suspect had a verbal altercation and the suspect shot the victim. The suspect and another subject then left the area in a Honda Civic. The vehicle has since been recovered and secured for evidence.

Investigative agencies are requesting that if you or anyone you know was in the area of Black Fox bridge on June 19 2026 between the hours of 7:30 pm and 9 pm to notify the Grainger County Sheriff’s Dept Det Leon Spoone @ 865-828-3613 or Tennessee Bureau of Investigation @ 1-800-TBI FIND.

Send a message to learn more

06/05/2026

🚔 NOW HIRING – CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS 🚔

The Grainger County Jail is currently accepting applications for dedicated men and women who are ready to serve their community with professionalism, integrity, and commitment.

We offer a competitive benefits package including:

▪️ Starting Pay: $19.35 – $20.35 per hour
▪️ 4 Day On / 4 Day Off Schedule
▪️ TCRS Retirement
▪️ Paid Holidays & Paid Military Leave
▪️ Paid Overtime & Longevity Pay
▪️ Paid Vacation & Sick Leave
▪️ Employee Medical Insurance Offered
▪️ Dental & Vision Insurance
▪️ Uniforms Furnished
▪️ Paid Bereavement Leave

If you are looking for a rewarding career with excellent benefits and the opportunity to make a difference every day, we encourage you to apply and become part of the team.

📍 Applications can be picked up at the Grainger County Sheriff’s Office or contact us for more information.
*You may also print an application from our website at :
https://www.graingercountytn.gov/site/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SO-APPLICATION.pdf

05/11/2026

"The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are as bold as a lion." —Proverbs 28:1

National Police Week serves as both a tribute to the fallen heroes who gave everything in the line of duty and a recognition of the dedicated officers who continue to serve their communities with courage, integrity, and selflessness every day.

Behind every badge is a story of sacrifice, service, and family. This week, we pause to remember the officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty while protecting the communities they swore to serve. Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten.

We also recognize and honor the officers who continue to answer the call each day, fully aware of the dangers they may face and the possibility that they may not return home to their loved ones. Yet they still put on the badge, stand the line, and serve with unwavering commitment.

To all law enforcement officers and their families — thank you for your sacrifice, your strength, and your service. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and we stand beside you not only this week, but every day.

05/04/2026

We sure live in a beautiful County! More Photos from the air of the Car Show at Grainger County High School!

05/04/2026

🚓🚗 Grainger County Sheriff’s Department Car Show 2026 🚗🚓

We are proud to share the success of our Car Show held at Grainger County High School on May 2, 2026! With 77 incredible vehicles entered, it was a fantastic day filled with community spirit, beautiful rides, and a shared purpose.

Thanks to your support, we were able to raise funds for our Shop with a Cop Program, helping make a difference for children in our community.

We’d like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who made this event possible:
👏 Modern Woodmen for generously matching donations up to $1,000
👏 Grainger Automotive, O’Reilly Auto Parts (Bean Station & Blaine), and NAPA of Morristown for donating door prizes
👏 The talented Grainger County High School students who designed the flyers and built the amazing trophies awarded at the show

Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of our community. Each year, we’re proud to host events like our car show, bicycle ride, and more to bring people together and give back.

Thank you again to everyone who participated, donated, and came out to support us—we can’t wait to see you next year! ❤️

05/04/2026

This week, May 3rd–May 9th, we proudly recognize Correctional Officer Week and honor the dedicated men and women who serve behind the walls every single day.

Correctional Officers work in one of the most challenging and often unseen roles in public safety. They maintain order, ensure safety, and show professionalism in environments that demand strength, patience, and resilience. Their commitment protects not only our facilities, but our entire community.

Today and every day, we thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering dedication.

🇺🇸 We appreciate you. We stand with you.🇺🇸

05/01/2026

Grainger County is proud to present the Clay Team that participated in the East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers Clay Shoot Tournament today. Grainger County Placed 14th overall in the Region. We are proud to be a participating agency of Crime Stoppers and remember you can submit an anonymous tip to 877-363-8847 or online at https://easttnvalleycrimestoppers.org/sitemenu.aspx?ID=937&
You can get paid if your information leads to an arrest.

05/01/2026

DON'T FORGET!!! Tomorrow ***May 2, 2026***** is the Shop With A Cop CAR SHOW fundraiser at Grainger County High School!! Come out and enjoy looking at some beautiful rides, beautiful weather, pick from several food truck vendors and have a great time for a great cause. We hope to see you there!

04/03/2026

We are praying for his family and Rutledge PD as they navigate losing one of their own.
Thank you for your service to our community...
From Rutledge Police Department: It is with a heavy heart to announce the passing of Patrolman John David Holland. John passed away at Fort Sanders Hospital on 04/02/2026 after having a triple bypass. John had been in emergency service for over 30 years in Jefferson County and came to work with the Rutledge Police Department last April. We ask for prayers for his family and children. Ptl. John David Holland will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Thank you for your service.