We’re grateful to report that 83-year-old Robert Stidham has been safely located in Sevierville, TN by officers with the Sevierville Police Department.
Thanks to the efforts of our Advanced Response Communication Center (ARCC) operators and the use of License Plate Reader technology, Robert’s vehicle was last detected heading toward Sevierville. Our team quickly notified Sevierville Police, who successfully found him unharmed.
We appreciate everyone who helped spread the word. This is another great example of teamwork, multi-agency collaboration, and technology coming together to keep our community safe—and to help ensure our loved ones make it back home.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – As Wilson County students head back to school on Friday, August 1st, the Department is launching a focused traffic safety blitz to ensure students’ routes to schools are safe. More officers will be out and around school zones, concentrating on motorists who violate traffic laws designed to protect children during their commutes to and from school.
During this heightened enforcement period, officers will be particularly attentive to speeding in school zones, unlawful use of handheld cell phones, passing stopped school buses, texting while driving, and violations of seat belt and child passenger safety laws. The department will also be deploying digital radar speed signs that display vehicle speeds and flash warnings when drivers exceed the posted limit, helping to increase awareness and encourage safer driving behaviors.
In partnership with local school crossing guards and school administrators, the Department will maintain open lines of communication throughout the school year to promptly address any traffic safety concerns. These guards play a vital role in helping children cross streets safely and managing traffic flow near schools.
The Department urges parents and guardians to allow extra time in the mornings, as increased traffic volumes can lead to longer travel times. Leaving earlier helps reduce stress, enhances driver awareness, and promotes a safer commute. Obeying posted speed limits, directional signs, and curb markings is essential to maintaining smooth traffic flow and ensuring the safety of students, especially those who walk or bike to school.
Patience and courtesy on the road are also key. Aggressive or rushed driving can lead to dangerous situations and create unnecessary congestion around school campuses. The habits adults demonstrate behind the wheel often influence young passengers, who are future drivers themselves.
Parents driving children to school should ensure their students are prepared to exit the vehicle quickly, with all necessary items ready. Delays often occur when children need to gather their belongings after the vehicle has stopped.
Drivers are reminded to watch for and follow the directions of school crossing guards. Their guidance is crucial in keeping our children safe as they cross busy intersections and school driveways.
To stay informed, parents are encouraged to visit their child’s school website to review specific traffic flow plans for drop-off and pick-up. The Wilson County Schools website is www.wcschools.com.
7/26/25 7:05P Update: We are grateful to report that the child was located unharmed at a home in Wilson County, and the suspect was stopped in Dekalb County.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – The Department is actively searching for a missing 3-year-old child taken by his non-custodial father following an argument with the child’s mother.
This afternoon, officers responded to Academy Sports, located at 549 Pleasant Grove Road, after receiving a call regarding an altercation between a mother and the child’s non-custodial father. During the incident, the mother attempted to retrieve her child from a vehicle, but the non-custodial father fled the scene with the child. Metro-Nashville Police later attempted to check on the child’s welfare, but the suspect fled from them and was not apprehended.
Earlier today, the suspect reportedly stole a handgun from a family member in Nashville.
The suspect is identified as 21-year-old Landon Andrew Jones of Lebanon. He is described as a White Hispanic male with brown eyes and brown hair, standing 5’9” tall and weighing approximately 150 pounds. He was last seen wearing a light camo-colored t-shirt and khaki shorts. Jones is believed to be driving a dark orange or maroon 2020 Dodge Charger with dark tinted windows, black wheels, and Tennessee license plate 708BNXS.
Suspect – Landon Jones Actual Suspect Vehicle Actual Suspect Vehicle
The missing child, Kyren, is a 3-year-old White male with blue eyes and dark blonde hair. He stands approximately 3 feet tall and weighs 35 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white shirt, gray shorts, and no shoes.
Child Image Removed with Update
Missing Child – Kyren
Detectives are working with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation in hopes of activating a Missing Child Alert.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kyren or Landon Jones is urged to contact the Mt. Juliet Police Department at (615) 754-2550. Tips can also be shared anonymously by calling (615) 754-TIPS (8477) or by visiting http://www.mjpd.org.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Mt. Juliet’s largest fireworks show will launch at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th from the Circle P Ranch, and the show can be viewed across much of central Mt. Juliet. Leading up to the show will be live music, kid activities, and food trucks starting at 5:00 p.m. at Circle P Ranch (gates open at 4:00 p.m.), which is on W. Division St near E. Main St. To ensure the event is safe and enjoyable for everyone, Mt. Juliet Police and Fire will be on site with roaming patrols and a security and first aid station in the parking lot of Cloyd’s Cumberland Presbyterian Church (595 W. Division St). The fireworks presentation, presented by Circle P Ranch, Volunteer Bank, Two Rivers Ford, TDS Telecom, and the City of Mt. Juliet, will begin around 9:00 p.m. on Friday, July 4th, 2025.
Premium, excellent viewing for the fireworks will be available at Circle P Ranch, the church parking lot along Tate Lane, the train depot, and parking lots near Mt. Juliet Road and Division Street. Good views will also extend to the area parking lots along Mt. Juliet Road from Old Lebanon Dirt Road and the Post Office. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for a good viewing location.
Mt. Juliet, Tenn. – Mt. Juliet has been named the 4th safest city in Tennessee by SafeWise—and proudly stands as the safest city in the state among those with a population over 18,500. This ranking reflects more than just numbers—it represents the daily dedication, smart strategies, and strong community ties that define Mt. Juliet’s approach to public safety.
SafeWise, which completed its own independent review, evaluated cities using FBI crime statistics and factored in both violent and property crime rates, adjusted per 1,000 residents to allow for fair comparisons across cities of varying sizes. While three smaller towns ranked slightly higher, Mt. Juliet stands out as the top-ranked city of its size—despite challenges such as being close to higher-crime areas, housing major retail destinations, and having a major interstate corridor.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is how it’s being done. Mt. Juliet operates with 82 officers at 1.9 officers per 1,000 residents, below both the Tennessee average of 2.6 and the national average of 2.4. Reaching the state average would require 32 additional officers, yet the department continues to outperform expectations through proactive policing and strategic use of technology. This efficiency has reduced the need to hire more officers, resulting in significant cost savings for the city—demonstrating that smart policing can deliver both safety and sustainability.
So far in 2025, crime is already down significantly when compared to the same period in 2024:
Robbery is down 100%
Burglary is down 56%
Vehicle burglary is down 42%
Overall theft has dropped 30%
Vehicle theft has decreased 27%
Shoplifting is down 27%
In addition, 337 individuals with active warrants were located in the first five months of the year—91% of whom were not Mt. Juliet residents. During the same period, 119 individuals were arrested for theft-related offenses, and 88% of those arrested were also from outside the city. Overwhelmingly, the department continues to push back against crime influences and criminals who cross county borders, maintaining a strong defensive posture to protect the Mt. Juliet community.
This success story isn’t just about statistics—it’s about commitment. The department is grateful for all that has been achieved through an efficient, lean, but strong approach. Mt. Juliet’s officers are on the front lines every day, working to stop crime before it reaches residents, visitors, and businesses. Their dedication reflects a mission driven by purpose, built on trust, and powered by a relentless commitment to keeping Mt. Juliet safe.
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.
