Mt. Juliet Police Newsroom

Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – The Mt. Juliet Police Department is excited to welcome another four-legged member to the team, K9 Reign.

After completing eight weeks of training, Officer Harper and K9 Reign successfully certified under the United States Police Canine Association standards in obedience, evidence search, suspect search, and criminal apprehension with and without gunfire. Reign will also be certified as a narcotics detection dog in the near future.

As a dual-purpose K9, Reign will assist in building searches, tracking missing persons and suspects, article searches, narcotics detection, and criminal apprehensions. Officer Reese Harper and K9 Reign will work opposite shifts from Officer Brown and K9 Citron to help ensure K9 coverage during peak activity times in the city.

Officer Chase Hale, who oversees training for our K9 teams, has dedicated countless hours to ensuring the success and readiness of these teams.

“Adding K9 Reign to our team strengthens our ability to serve and protect the Mt. Juliet community,” said Chief Tyler Chandler. “These K9 teams are an invaluable resource that enhances officer safety and helps us locate missing persons, track suspects, recover evidence, and combat illegal narcotics activity. I am proud of Officer Harper and K9 Reign for their hard work and successful certification. I also want to recognize Officer Hale for the countless hours he invests in training and developing our K9 teams. His knowledge, dedication, and commitment to excellence play a critical role in the success of our handlers and K9s, and our department is stronger because of his efforts.”

Update on K9 Aksel

After months of recovery from a serious on-duty injury, Aksel officially retired from police service and is now in the next chapter of his life with a familiar and caring MJPD family. Aksel was injured in a vehicle crash while responding with his handler, Officer Harper, to a violent emergency call. Although his injuries were initially stabilized and every effort was made to help him recover, his leg never fully healed. Following multiple procedures and extensive rehabilitation, Aksel’s veterinary team ultimately recommended amputation to provide him with the best long-term quality of life.

With his retirement from active police service, the department was grateful Aksel remained within the Mt. Juliet Police family. Reserve Police Officer Brian Dalhover stepped forward to adopt Aksel. He and his wife, Dominique, have brought Aksel into their home and hearts—giving him the love, support, and stability he deserves. Brian and his wife, Dominique, have embraced Aksel as part of their family.

We are also deeply thankful for the support of Project K9 Hero, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for retired police K9s. Because of their generosity, Aksel’s ongoing medical care is fully covered, helping ensure he has the healthy and happy retirement he deserves.

The Department is so grateful for our community. The continued support, encouragement, and care for our department and K9 teams never go unnoticed. These dogs are more than partners; they provide an extra layer of protection for our community and our officers.

Team MJPD is proud to continue investing in resources that help keep Mt. Juliet one of the safest cities around. Thank you for continuing to stand beside us. Together, we will keep working to make Mt. Juliet a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.

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Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – This afternoon, the Department proudly recognized three outstanding officers during a promotion ceremony surrounded by their families and fellow team members. Chief Chandler presented each officer with their promotion plaque, marking an important milestone in their careers.

Officer Brian Cruz has been promoted to Detective and will serve in the Criminal Investigations Unit.

Officer Devin Foley has been promoted to Corporal and will take on a leadership role with a supervision team on D-Detail patrol.

Corporal Ethan Bachman has been promoted to Sergeant and will lead B-Detail patrol.

Chief Chandler stated, “I’m proud of these men and the work they’ve put in to earn this moment. Promotions like this don’t happen by chance. They come from long days, tough calls, and a steady commitment to doing the job the right way, even when no one is watching. Detective Cruz, Corporal Foley, and Sergeant Bachman have each proven they’re ready to take the next step, and I have full confidence in the leadership they’ll bring to their new roles. Just as important, we recognize the families who stand beside them and support this calling every single day. This is a good day for our department and for the community we serve.”

Please join us in congratulating Detective Cruz, Corporal Foley, and Sergeant Bachman on their well-earned promotions.

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Statement from Chief Chandler:

Over the past two days, we’ve seen the impact of anonymous calls with threats directed at West Wilson Middle School. These calls came into our Advanced Response Communications Center as automated messages. As soon as they were received, we immediately notified the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, Wilson County Schools leadership, and our state partners so we could respond quickly, thoroughly, and in a coordinated way.

At this point, as the Sheriff’s Office has released, we have found no credible threat to the safety of our students, staff, or community.

Even with that being the case, I’ve seen the worry this caused, and it’s completely understandable. When something like this involves our schools and our kids, it’s going to create concern. It’s upsetting because we work hard every single day to make sure this community, your families, and your kids can live in peace. That peace matters here in Mt. Juliet, and when something like this disrupts it, it weighs on all of us.

Being on scene both days, the level of care from everyone working to make a difficult situation better was clear and left a lasting impression. Principal Josh Johnston and his team did everything they could to support their students and staff. Teachers and support staff stepped up in a big way to provide as much normalcy as possible for the students. WCSO SRO David Stolinsky was right there in the middle of it, helping manage everything that comes with a situation like this. Many other schools, like Stoner Creek Elementary and MJCA, felt the impacts as well.

And on the law enforcement side, I saw exactly what you’d expect from the people who serve you. Our officers and the Sheriff’s Office deputies worked side by side from the very beginning. Communication was strong. Coordination was strong. They didn’t miss a step.

We put more than 20 MJPD additional personnel around our schools and maintained an elevated operational posture across the city. That included increased patrols, added presence at schools, and a very deliberate focus on visibility, because you deserved to see that your kids were safe. That presence was about protection and giving our community peace of mind. One example is this moment, I saw at Stoner Creek Elementary, where Det. McKenzie Favors was hanging out with some students while keeping watch over them.

 

Beyond what occurred at the schools, our teams were also working behind the scenes, following leads, analyzing information, and coordinating with our partners to track down where these calls came from. That work is ongoing.

I also received calls from across our community and our partner agencies. From our City’s elected leadership, including Kenny Martin and our City Manager’s Office, to Wilson County Schools Director Jeff Luttrell, District Attorney General Jason Lawson, the County Mayor’s Office, our state and federal partners, and of course constant communication with Wilson County Sheriff’s Office leadership. Every one of those conversations had the same tone. They care about this community, and they were asking what they could do to help.

Throughout all of this, our team felt the support from this community. I heard from many of our officers and staff about the encouragement they received, the appreciation that was shared, and the simple thank yous from people they encountered. That kind of support matters. It reinforces the trust between this department and the community we serve, and it reminds our team why they do this job.

The investigation is being led by the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office since this involves a county school, and our detectives are continuing to assist them however needed. Every available investigative tool and resource is being used right now. Technology has been a major asset in helping us protect this community and reduce crime over the years. But as communication technology has evolved, it has also created new challenges for investigations and, unfortunately, makes it easier for anonymous threats like this to be sent. Even with those challenges, law enforcement continues to push forward to try to figure it out.

Moments like this are frustrating. Not because we don’t know how to respond, but because they disrupt something we all care deeply about, which is the sense of safety and normalcy in our community. Over the past couple of days, we’ve seen what really defines this community. People stepping up, looking out for one another, and doing everything they can to support our kids. That matters, and it’s something to be proud of.

As we move into the Easter weekend, I hope you’re able to spend time with the people you care about and find some calm after everything this week has brought. Even in difficult moments, light overcomes darkness, and this community shows that every day. We will keep showing up on our end. We will stay focused, stay ready, and continue doing everything we can to protect this community and preserve the peace that makes Mt. Juliet such a special place to live.

Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – This morning, the Department received another threat of violence directed toward West Wilson Middle School. Similar to the previous incident, the threat was delivered through an automated message after being answered by our Advanced Response Communications Center.

Details of the threat are being kept confidential to protect the investigative efforts of the ongoing investigation. Protecting certain information ensures investigative techniques remain effective and supports our ability to identify those responsible and hold them fully accountable

Following established protocols, the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, which has primary jurisdiction over county school property, was immediately notified with Wilson County Schools leadership. The Tennessee Department of Homeland Security is also actively assisting in the investigation and response.

School administrators at West Wilson Middle School and nearby Stoner Creek Elementary have communicated directly with students, staff, and families to keep them informed.

Out of an abundance of caution, MJPD will maintain an elevated operational posture across all schools within the city. This includes an increased law enforcement presence and additional personnel dedicated specifically to school safety. These measures are proactive, coordinated, and focused on prevention, rapid response, and maintaining a secure environment for students and staff.

MJPD remains in close partnership with the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and their School Resource Officers. While WCSO SROs have primary jurisdiction on school campuses, our officers work alongside them daily through coordinated patrols, shared communication, joint response planning, and unified training. This collaboration ensures seamless cooperation and a strong, visible law enforcement presence.

The safety of our community remains our highest priority. Protecting our children is at the center of everything we do. While the origin and intent behind this threat is still under investigation, it is important to remember that making threats of violence is a serious criminal offense and will be thoroughly investigated.

We encourage anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Mt. Juliet Police Department at 615-754-2550. Information can also be provided to the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security Tip Line at 877-250-2333.

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Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – This evening, the Department received a threat of violence directed toward West Wilson Middle School for tomorrow. The threat was delivered through an automated message after being answered by our Advanced Response Communications Center.

Following established protocols, the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, which has primary jurisdiction over county school property, was immediately notified. The Tennessee Department of Homeland Security was also contacted to assist in the investigation and response.

West Wilson Middle School Principal Joshua Johnston has communicated this information directly with students, staff, and families.

Out of an abundance of caution, MJPD is significantly increasing our operational posture across all schools within the city limits. This includes a strong law enforcement presence and the deployment of additional personnel dedicated specifically to school response. These measures are intentional, coordinated, and focused on prevention, rapid response, and maintaining a secure environment for students and staff.

MJPD maintains a strong, ongoing partnership with the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and their School Resource Officers. While WCSO SROs have primary jurisdiction on school campuses, our officers work alongside them every day through coordinated patrol efforts, shared communication, joint response planning, and unified training initiatives. This established relationship ensures seamless cooperation, rapid information sharing, and a unified law enforcement presence when it matters most. Our agencies operate with a shared commitment to protecting students, staff, and families across our community.

The safety of our community is our highest priority. Protecting our children remains at the forefront of everything we do. While the intent behind this threat is currently unknown, making threats of violence is a serious criminal offense and will be thoroughly investigated in coordination with our partner agencies.

We encourage anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Mt. Juliet Police Department at 615-754-2550. Information can also be relayed to TN Department of Homeland Security’s tip line at 877-250-2333.

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Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – All suspects involved in an early morning armed robbery were swiftly apprehended through the combined efforts of advanced technology, decisive police work, and strong collaboration among law enforcement agencies.

Around 3:30 a.m., Mt. Juliet Police officers responded to a reported armed robbery at the Hilton Garden Inn, at 1975 Providence Parkway, involving an 33-year-old Florida man who had arranged to meet a female he met online. Three male suspects arrived and robbed the victim at gunpoint inside his hotel room.

The victim immediately called 911. Through the department’s recent investment in Flock Live 911, officers were instantly alerted via smartphones and in-car computers. Officers were able to hear the call in real time and see the caller’s exact location, allowing for an immediate and coordinated response while the suspects were actively fleeing.

Officers quickly located and engaged the suspect vehicle as it fled the area. A pursuit ensued, traveling along Old Lebanon Dirt Road into Nashville and ending at a dead-end in Hermitage. Two occupants were taken into custody at the vehicle, while the driver and one passenger ran away into the woods.

With assistance from Metro Nashville Police, Tennessee Highway Patrol, and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, a containment perimeter was established. Metro Nashville’s helicopter team located the remaining suspects from the air. A coordinated effort involving Metro Nashville K9 and Mt. Juliet officers led to the successful apprehension of the two outstanding suspects. Lebanon Police K9 also arrived to assist.

Chief Tyler Chandler said, “This incident highlights what can be accomplished when preparation, technology, and teamwork come together. Our officers responded quickly using real-time information, and with the strong support of our partner agencies, we were able to safely apprehend everyone involved. I want to thank Metro Nashville Police, Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office, and Lebanon Police for their assistance. This level of coordination ensures those who commit violent acts are held accountable and our community remains protected.”

A rifle and an airsoft pistol was recovered from the vehicle, along with the victim’s stolen property. The investigation remains ongoing.

Apprehended:

– 28-year-old male from Arkansas

– 27-year-old male from Arkansas, wanted in Arkansas for two non-extraditable warrants related to drug possession and contempt of court

– 19-year-old female from Arkansas

– 17-year-old male from Arkansas

This incident underscores how advanced technology and strong partnerships allow officers to respond swiftly and hold violent offenders accountable.

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Mt. Juliet, TN — The Mt. Juliet Police Department, Nashville Airport Police, and Mt. Juliet Police Foundation are coming together in support of a local Mt. Juliet resident and veteran Nashville International Airport Police K9 Officer whose home was destroyed in a devastating fire on Swallow Cove earlier this morning.

The officer, his wife, and his K9 partner safely escaped the fire. However, the home was a total loss. The officer has faithfully served for many years with the Nashville International Airport Department of Public Safety and is a valued member of the broader law enforcement community.

The Mt. Juliet Police Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization established to support law enforcement in Mt. Juliet, is coordinating a donation drive to assist the officer and his family during this difficult time. One hundred percent of all donations will go directly to the family.

Mt. Juliet Police Chief Tyler Chandler responded to the scene, where he met with Nashville Airport Police Chief Beth Kreppein, the affected family, and members of the Nashville International Airport Police to offer support.

“This morning, we stood alongside our partners at Airport Police to support one of their own during an incredibly difficult time,” said Chief Chandler. “This officer has dedicated years of service to protecting others, and today, our community is coming together to support him and his family. The Mt. Juliet Police Foundation is proud to step in and help a member of our community begin the process of rebuilding. We are grateful everyone made it out safely, and we are so thankful to have a strong community that steps in when needed. Nashville Airport, especially their K9 teams, have always answered our call for help for their K9 assistance.”

In coordination with Airport Police leadership and the Mt. Juliet Police Foundation’s ongoing mission to support local law enforcement, efforts quickly mobilized to assist the affected family. The partnership between agencies and the shared commitment to service have been evident throughout the response.

The Nashville Airport Police K9 program has long supported the Mt. Juliet Police Department and the community through mutual aid and K9 assistance. Today, that partnership comes full circle as the Mt. Juliet community rallies behind one of their own.

Community members who wish to contribute to the donation drive are encouraged to participate and support the family as they begin to recover. One hundred percent of all donations will go directly to the family.

The donation link can be found at http://www.mjpd.org or directly here: Mt. Juliet Police Foundation DonorBox Link .

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Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Four Mt. Juliet Police Department officers have successfully graduated from the Walters State Community College Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy, with two officers earning top honors. Officers Ronnie Hill, Kwamez Kirby, Alex Peery, and Kendall Yoder were among 56 law enforcement professionals from across Tennessee recognized during the graduation ceremony for Class 139.

Officer Kendall Yoder served as Class President and was awarded the prestigious David Purkey Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership and dedication throughout the academy. Before becoming a police officer, Yoder served as a student intern at MJPD while attending college. She is a graduate of Franklin High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Trevecca Nazarene University.

Officer Alex Peery received the Defensive and Tactical Driving Award, recognizing his exceptional performance and skill in vehicle operations training. Prior to joining MJPD, Peery proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. During his transition to civilian service, he participated in the Army Career Skills Program, completing a 180-day internship with MJPD while still on active duty. Peery is a graduate of Smyrna High School.

Officer Kwamez Kirby, a lifelong member of the Mt. Juliet community, graduated from Wilson Central High School before serving on active duty in the United States Navy. He continues to serve our country today as a member of the Navy Reserve.

Officer Ronnie Hill followed in the footsteps of his father, who served many years in law enforcement. Hill grew up in the Hermitage community and graduated from McGavock High School before serving on active duty in the United States Air Force.

Chief Tyler Chandler expressed, “We are proud of these four officers and the work they put in at the academy. They stood out among their peers, and three of them have already served our nation in the military before continuing that service here in Mt. Juliet. One of them even started with us as an intern and chose to come back. That speaks to the culture we are building here. When you invest in people and relationships, you attract high-performing individuals who want to serve their community the right way.”

MJPD remains a highly sought-after agency for men and women seeking a career in law enforcement. With strong community support, strong elected leadership support, modern resources, and a culture centered on dedication and service, the department attracts a large number of qualified applicants for a limited number of positions. Candidates must complete a competitive hiring process, resulting in a team of highly committed and focused officers dedicated to protecting and serving the Mt. Juliet community. This commitment to excellence contributes to the department maintaining a very low vacancy rate while continuing to build strong partnerships with the community it proudly serves.

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Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Mt. Juliet Police responded swiftly this morning to two separate incidents that occurred within minutes of each other on Lebanon Road near the Green Hill High School zone. Both suspects have been identified, charged, and arrested.

Quick Identification Leads to Arrest After Crossing Guard Confrontation Near Green Hill High

At approximately 8:20 a.m., a passenger exited a vehicle and confronted a Wilson County Schools crossing guard who was directing traffic on Lebanon Road at Green Hill High School. Following the confrontation, the suspect, a 33 year old Old Hickory man, switched seats with the original driver and proceeded to drive onto school property.

After the incident, the police department was notified, and a video of the incident was shared with the department, allowing officers to quickly identify the vehicle using the department’s Guardian Shield license plate reader technology. School Resource Officers assisted in the investigation. An MJPD Detective obtained warrants for assault, disorderly conduct, and driving on a suspended license. The suspect was taken into custody this afternoon at his residence by a coordinated team of Mt. Juliet Police officers and Wilson County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

Reckless Driver Arrested After Causing Multi Vehicle Crash and Attempted Car Theft

Just three minutes later, at approximately 8:23 a.m., a Wilson County Sheriff’s deputy observed a reckless driver entering the city on Lebanon Road near the county line. The vehicle was traveling at extremely high speeds and driving in the center turn lane. As the deputy attempted to catch up while communicating with dispatch and subsequent notification to the Mt. Juliet Police Advanced Response Communication Center, the vehicle caused a three car crash near Lebanon Road and Nonaville Road.

Following the crash, an uninvolved adult male stopped to check on individuals involved in the crash. The suspect, a 23 year old Illinois man, then attempted to take the individual’s vehicle. Officers and deputies were arriving on scene during the encounter, leading to a brief foot pursuit and the suspect’s apprehension.

The suspect was charged with attempted theft, DUI, implied consent, reckless driving, evading, and resisting arrest.

Chief Tyler Chandler stated, “I am proud of the coordinated response between our officers, SROs, and deputies. The efforts on display this morning reflect the strength of our shared commitment to protecting students, staff, and our community. Thankfully, both incidents were handled quickly with no serious injuries reported. We will continue to maintain a visible and proactive presence in our school zones.”

The Mt. Juliet Police Department remains committed to ensuring the safety of our school zones and community through proactive enforcement, advanced technology, and strong partnerships.

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Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Local, county, and federal partners met this afternoon at Mt. Juliet Police Department Headquarters to reinforce a clear path forward for Cedar Creek Marina ownership in enhancing security and safety at their private property.

The meeting, convened by MJPD, included Cedar Creek Marina ownership and management, representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mt. Juliet city leadership, Wilson County officials, Wilson County Sheriff’s Office leadership, Mt. Juliet Fire Department leadership, and Mt. Juliet Police Department leadership. It lasted about an hour and a half. A full list of attendees is attached.

It was clearly affirmed that under the lease agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for lake access, responsibility for safety and security at the marina rests with ownership. Marina representatives acknowledged that responsibility and outlined steps they are taking to enhance security.

Ownership spoke on a safety plan that includes enhancements to security infrastructure and technology. Immediate actions include nightly security patrols, updated entry gates capable of capturing photos, upgraded lighting, and a comprehensive review of the marina’s camera system. They also confirmed that any slip holder found to be using a vessel as a residence will have their lease terminated in accordance with policy, lease terms, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations.

The group emphasized the importance of direct communication with the community. During the meeting, attendees collectively encouraged marina ownership to organize a public meeting so residents can directly hear about the planned safety improvements, timelines, and expectations moving forward. Marina representatives stated that hosting a public meeting is already on their radar and committed to organizing one.

“Today’s meeting showed what strong collaboration looks like when everyone is focused on solutions,” said Chief Tyler Chandler. “Marina ownership has been responsive and very open to the advice and input provided by each agency at the table. They understand their responsibility under their lease agreement and are taking steps to create a safer environment. I am encouraged by the momentum and look forward to seeing the investments being made into the marina to strengthen safety and security for everyone.”

Following the January 30 incident, MJPD enhanced its public safety presence in the area, including deploying a mobile surveillance camera tower to the parking lot, initiating regular dock walks to increase visibility, and continuing proactive patrols. Additional permanent public safety cameras remain under review.

Link to a list of Cedar Creek Marina Safety and Coordination Stakeholder Meeting – Attendee List

Link to a list of Mt. Juliet Police Officer-Initiated Proactive and Received Calls for Service at Cedar Creek Marina (City Limits) of 9120 Saundersville Rd

Note: List only includes MJPD calls for service within the city limits. It does not include a list of Wilson County Sheriff’s Office calls for service, outside of the city limits, at the same address. Part of the address is within the city limits and part of the address is outside of the city limits.

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