Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – The Mt. Juliet Police Department is proud to announce that Officer Nikki Morales has successfully graduated from the highly esteemed National Forensic Academy (NFA), operated by the University of Tennessee’s Law Enforcement Innovation Center.
Officer Morales was one of just 27 law enforcement professionals selected nationwide to complete Session 67 of the academy—a rigorous, 10-week, in-residence program providing over 400 hours of advanced training in forensic science. The program emphasizes practical application, with approximately 60% of instruction conducted through hands-on field exercises.
Throughout her training, Officer Morales participated in complex mock crime scenes and received in-depth instruction on analyzing bloodstain patterns, human remains, and various types of forensic evidence. She also received training in courtroom testimony to enhance the effective presentation of forensic findings in legal proceedings.
(L-R) Chief Michael Mullins, Sergeant Josh Lo, Officer Nikki Morales, Deputy Chief Tyler Chandler, and Lieutenant James Cothron
A significant portion of her coursework took place at the University of Tennessee’s Anthropological Research Facility, widely known as the “Body Farm,” where she studied post-mortem decomposition and skeletal biology in real-world conditions.
The National Forensic Academy is recognized as one of the nation’s premier forensic training programs for law enforcement.
Officer Morales’ graduation reflects the Mt. Juliet Police Department’s strong commitment to professional development, advanced training, and delivering exceptional investigative services to the community.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – The Mt. Juliet Police Department and Two Rivers Ford invite you to stop by in a local community event for Police Week. This free event is open to all ages and promises a day of family-friendly fun and engagement.
At this exciting event, attendees will have the opportunity to:
Meet and greet local officers who work tirelessly to keep our community safe.
Explore the inside of a police car and learn about the tools of the trade.
Ask questions and engage in conversations with law enforcement professionals.
Take a moment to thank an officer for their dedicated service.
Get to know our first responders and learn about their vital role in our community.
In addition to these engaging activities, attendees will enjoy complimentary Chick-fil-A biscuits, courtesy of Chick-fil-A Providence.
The event will also feature free items from the Mt. Juliet Police Department, providing valuable resources and information to the community.
But the excitement doesn’t end there! Attendees will have the chance to win fantastic door prizes, including:
Free Works package oil change from Two Rivers Ford
A family four-pack of tickets to the Nashville Zoo
A family four-pack of tickets to Holiday World Splashin’ Safari
And more!
As part of our commitment to supporting the next generation of law enforcement professionals, the Mt. Juliet Police Cadet’s Program will be on-site accepting donations. Your contributions will help empower and educate youth who aspire to serve their community in law enforcement.
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Police Week and show your appreciation for the dedicated individuals who keep our community safe. Bring the whole family and join us for a day of fun, learning, and gratitude.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Former Chief of Police, Charles McCrary (Ret.), who passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the age of 87.
Chief McCrary proudly served the Wilson County community for 29 years. He began his law enforcement career as a Deputy with the Wilson County Sheriff’s Department in 1973 and quickly distinguished himself, becoming the first officer in Wilson County to earn the credentials of a Certified Law Enforcement Officer in 1974/1975. On October 1, 1976, he joined the Mt. Juliet Police Department and soon became the second Chief of Police in the city’s history, leaving a legacy of leadership, service, and dedication that helped shape our department into what it is today.
Beyond law enforcement, Chief McCrary was a proud veteran, having served our nation in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division, the “Screaming Eagles.” A former Golden Gloves boxing champion, Chief McCrary spent his life fighting for the greater good, always guided by hard work, common sense, and a heart for people from all walks of life.
Former Chief Charles McCrary (Ret.)
Chief McCrary was deeply admired for his sterling character and his selfless commitment to public service. He loved golfing, watching old westerns, and above all, treasured his beloved wife, Sharon “Cherie” McCrary, with whom he shared a deep and abiding love.
Funeral services, conducted by Dr. Howie Cantrell, will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Sellars Funeral Home at Mt. Juliet. Interment will follow with full Police Honors at Mt. Juliet Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends for visitation on Friday, May 2, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and again on Saturday, May 3, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Chief McCrary’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege to know and serve alongside him. His impact on our community and department will never be forgotten.
Former Chief Charles McCrary (Ret.) & Former Chief Buell Agee (Ret.)
Former Chief Charles McCrary (Ret.) & Former Chief Ted Floyd (Ret.)
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” — Matthew 5:9
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – This afternoon around 4:40 p.m., Mt. Juliet Police Officer Reese Harper and his K9 partner, Aksel (“Axel”), were involved in a crash while responding emergency to a reported domestic-related shooting-in-progress.
As Officer Harper was traveling northbound on N. Mt. Juliet Road with lights, standard siren, and enhanced rumbler siren activated, he entered the intersection at Old Lebanon Dirt Road. A juvenile motorist, who initially stopped, then unexpectedly accelerated into the intersection, striking the patrol vehicle on the driver’s side rear wheel area as the officer was proceeding through with right-of-way under emergency conditions. The impact caused disabling damage and a loss of steering control, leading the patrol vehicle to strike the rear of a pickup truck that had safely pulled over to yield to the emergency vehicle.
Officer Harper was not injured, though the collision initially trapped him in the vehicle due to the damaged driver’s door. He was able to safely exit through the passenger side. Officer Harper immediately checked on K9 Aksel, who had sustained a serious leg injury. K9 Aksel was transported quickly to Avenue Animal Hospital, where his injury was stabilized before being transferred for emergency surgery at a specialized Middle Tennessee veterinary facility.
Other motorists involved were evaluated on scene by medical personnel. Fortunately, no one required transport for additional medical treatment.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol responded to investigate the all circumstances surrounding the crash.
Officer Harper was responding to a domestic-related incident on Oakhall Drive, where shots were reportedly being fired. Upon arrival, officers discovered an adult male deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation into that incident is ongoing, and our hearts go out to the family during this difficult time.
K9 Aksel is the department’s newest K9 team member and has been excelling in his training. He was scheduled to undergo his official certifications next week, and his performance thus far had shown strong promise in his role with the department. The department’s hearts and prayers go out to Officer Harper, and everyone is hoping for the best possible outcome for K9 Aksel as he undergoes emergency treatment. Additionally, were are extremely thankful for the initial rapid care from Dr. Nicole Harris and staff at Avenue Animal Hospital, including the men and women of the Mt. Juliet Fire Department. Several motorists and bystanders also stopped to help Officer Harper and K9 Aksel, and our department, including them, are very grateful for your compassion.
K9 Aksel and Officer Harper K9 Aksel and Officer Harper K9 Aksel and Officer Harper
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Message on Supporting K9 Aksel:
Many in our community have reached out asking how they can support K9 Aksel and the Department’s K9 program. We are incredibly grateful for that kindness.
We’ve also received generous offers to drop off care packages, treats, and food for K9 Aksel. While we wish we could give all of that to him, our police K9s are highly specialized and follow strict diets and care protocols. We would never want a thoughtful gift to go to waste.
Because of this, the best way to support is through the Mt. Juliet Police Foundation—a trusted non-profit that directly supports the officers, staff, and programs of MJPD. For those wishing to help specifically with the K9 program, a special donation link has been established here: https://donorbox.org/support-the-mjpd-k9-program. Donations received can be designated for direct use by our K9 officers and the program’s ongoing needs.
Once again, we are deeply thankful for the outpouring of love and encouragement for K9 Aksel, his partner Officer Reese Harper, and our entire MJPD family. Your support truly means the world.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn.- A 18-year-old Nashville man is in custody following a dangerous and intentional attempt to intimidate and harm Mt. Juliet Police officers. Earlier this afternoon, the suspect deliberately drove his vehicle toward an MJPD officer who was conducting an unrelated traffic stop.
What followed were two separate vehicle pursuits, during which the suspect continued to drive recklessly through the community—intentionally targeting officers and police vehicles in an apparent effort to cause harm. Alarmingly, this is not the first such incident involving this vehicle. On Monday, March 17th, the same vehicle was involved in a similar, purposeful confrontation with MJPD officers. However, no one was apprehended.
With the critical support of the Metro Nashville Police Department’s Aviation Unit, the suspect was safely tracked from the air, allowing MJPD officers to disengage from active pursuit. The suspect’s vehicle was ultimately disabled by an MNPD spike strip on Clarksville Highway near Old Hickory Blvd, and he was taken into custody without further incident.
The suspect has been identified as Sujoy P. Guha-Perry, 18, of Nashville. At the time of his arrest, he was wearing a GPS ankle monitor while out on bond for involvement in a July 2024 shooting incident at a Nashville apartment complex pool party, during which a 16-year-old girl was shot.
Guha-Perry was booked into the Wilson County Jail tonight and charged with Criminal Attempted Homicide, two counts of Aggravated Assault on a First Responder, Felony Evading, Reckless Endangerment, and Reckless Driving.
We are incredibly thankful that no officers were injured during these multiple, intentional attempts to cause harm. Our gratitude extends to MNPD for their rapid assistance as we continue to work together to keep our communities safe.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Officer Michael Wiley, one of Mt. Juliet’s finest, has graduated from the highly respected National Forensic Academy (NFA) at the University of Tennessee. Wiley successfully completed the rigorous 10-week, in-residence training program, which provides advanced education in evidence identification, collection, and preservation for law enforcement professionals.
Officer Michael Wiley
Wiley was one of 28 officers from across the country to complete NFA Session 66, culminating in a graduation ceremony held today in Knoxville. The program included over 400 hours of specialized forensic training, with approximately 60% dedicated to hands-on field exercises.
As part of his training, Wiley worked on mock crime scenes, analyzing bloodstain patterns, human remains, and forensic evidence using cutting-edge investigative techniques and tools. He also received training in courtroom testimony to effectively present forensic findings in legal proceedings. A significant portion of his studies took place at UT’s Anthropological Research Facility, known as the “Body Farm”, where he gained valuable experience in documenting post-mortem changes and studying skeletal biology.
(L-R) Deputy Chief Tyler Chandler, Officer Michael Wiley, Chief Michael Mullins, and Lieutenant James Cothron
The National Forensic Academy, operated by UT’s Law Enforcement Innovation Center, is funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance and is recognized as one of the nation’s top forensic training programs for law enforcement.
Wiley’s achievement represents Mt. Juliet Police Department’s ongoing commitment to advanced training and excellence in investigations, ensuring the highest level of service for the community.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – The Mt. Juliet Police Department is proud of two officers following their successful graduation from the Walters State Regional Law Enforcement Training Academy in Greeneville, Tennessee. This morning, Officers Izhar Gomez-Sanchez and Aaron Wharton, along with 44 other law enforcement professionals from across the state, officially completed the Basic Police School as part of Class 135.
Officers Aaron Wharton and Izhar Gomez-Sanchez
Officer Gomez-Sanchez brings experience to the department, having previously served as a Tribal Officer on an Indian Reservation in San Diego, California, and as a member of the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in Tennessee.
Officer Wharton, a lifelong member of the Mt. Juliet community, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Christian Studies from the University of the Cumberlands.
(L-R) Training Corporal Kyle Holtmeyer, Chief Michael Mullins, Officer Aaron Wharton, Officer Izhar Gomez-Sanchez, Deputy Chief Tyler Chandler, and Training Sergeant Scott Fulton
The Department is proud of their dedication and hard work throughout the academy. Their commitment to service and professionalism will make a meaningful impact in our community, and we look forward to their contributions in keeping Mt. Juliet safe.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – This afternoon, a traffic stop for illegal window tint and failure to signal led to the arrest of a wanted 36-year-old Nashville man—but not without a chase and him assaulting an officer.
An MJPD officer observed the violations inside the city limits on Lebanon Rd near Matterhorn Dr and initiated a stop just inside Hermitage, past the county line. The man, a passenger in the vehicle, suddenly ran toward Tulip Grove Rd, prompting the officer to pursue him on foot while a backup officer remained with an adult female driver and an 8-year-old child. During the chase, a Taser was deployed, but during the arrest attempt, the suspect assaulted the officer. Additional backup officers arrived to help the officer take the wanted man into custody. Fortunately, the officer sustained only minor injuries and was treated and released by medics at the scene. As a precaution, the suspect was transported to the hospital at his request.
Further investigation revealed the suspect was wanted in three counties for serious offenses, including probation violations related to felony domestic assault with bodily injury in Nashville, felony aggravated assault, violation of an order of protection, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Montgomery County, and contempt of court in Shelby County.
MJPD remains committed to pushing back against cross-border criminal activity. With Mt. Juliet and Nashville’s city limits connected, our officers frequently patrol the city limits near the county line to deter crime before it impacts our residents. When violations occur in our community, our officers have full legal authority to stop offenders, even if they continue into Nashville. During this incident, an uninvolved individual stopped at the scene and questioned officers, wrongly claiming they could not be in Hermitage. To be clear—Mt. Juliet officers have the authority to stop offenders who commit violations in our city, even if the stop takes place outside the city limits.
We are grateful for our officers who continue to work tirelessly, putting themselves in harm’s way each day to protect our community. Their dedication goes beyond routine patrols—they actively pursue dangerous individuals, like the man arrested today, who have a history of violence and pose a serious threat across Middle Tennessee. Through vigilance, bravery, and proactivity, our officers work to prevent crime before it takes root, ensuring Mt. Juliet remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family. Their sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and we deeply appreciate their unwavering commitment to justice and a safe community.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – An assault investigation involving a knife, between acquaintances, on Eagle Trace Drive is underway. Around 6:55 a.m. this morning, officers rushed out to a home in the 1400 block of Eagle Trace Drive in reference to an assault that just occurred. Officers arrived to find a 20-year-old male, and two other individuals, a 34-year-old male and a 18-year-old male, with injuries. All are from Mt. Juliet.
A preliminary investigation indicated that the 20-year-old male arrived at the home this morning, leading to a physical altercation that escalated when he brandished a knife.
All injured parties were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Detectives remain on the scene as they gather evidence and facts to determine exactly what occurred. Charges are pending.
We are thankful for the quick response of the police officers and medics. The incident was isolated at the home.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – There is a new route, and the Mt. Juliet Christmas Parade will affect traffic on most of N. Mt. Juliet Road, between Weston Drive and Woodridge Place (West Wilson Middle School to Mt. Juliet Middle School), on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Starting at 10:45 a.m., North Mt. Juliet Road will be closed from Weston Drive to Woodridge Place until approximately 12:30 p.m. The parade kicks off at 11:00 a.m. To avoid the road closure, the following routes are recommended:
Use the Golden Bear Gateway bypass.
Use S. Greenhill Rd to Division St, to Pascal Dr, to Page Dr, to Old Lebanon Dirt Rd, to Chandler Rd, to Central Pike.
Parade spectators are encouraged to adhere to the following safety measures for themselves and children:
Don’t go after throws: Don’t chase after candy or other items that land near passing floats.
Don’t cross between floats: Avoid crossing the street between floats.
Keep a safe distance: Maintain a safe distance from floats, vehicles, and performers.
Choose a viewing area: Select a designated viewing area away from the parade route to avoid being in the path of vehicles or floats.
Stay alert: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid using headphones or electronic devices that could distract you.
Follow crosswalks: Use designated crosswalks and follow traffic signals when crossing the street.
Stay warm and dry: Ensure you pack a jacket and umbrella if the weather changes.
Listen to public safety officials: Stay behind barricades/cones and out of the street, and listen to public safety officials.
Mt. Juliet’s residents and visitors should plan and be aware of the parade, which begins at 11:00 a.m. from West Wilson Middle School, travelling Mt. Juliet Rd and ending at Woodridge Place.
If you attend the parade, the police department suggests arriving much before the 10:45 a.m. road closure. This will allow plenty of time to find parking. If you are not attending the parade, you may want to avoid the Mt. Juliet Road corridor to reduce frustration with the road closure and large traffic volume.
Remember, there will be a large amount of vehicle and pedestrian traffic along Mt. Juliet Road in the north end of town after the parade. So take your time, and please be considerate. It is estimated that the parade traffic will be clear around 1:00 p.m.
Follow Mt. Juliet Police on Twitter @MtJulietPolice for live and active information about the parade as they happen.
