An investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office, working in conjunction with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, has resulted in indictments against two Monroe County Sheriff’s Department employees.

The investigation found that fleet manager Neal Townsend and maintenance garage employee Jamey “Lee” Frank improperly used a trusty inmate assigned to the sheriff’s department maintenance garage to perform work on private property.

Investigators determined that Frank transported the inmate from an assigned county work location to a privately owned watercraft repair business where both Frank and Townsend also worked. Video footage showed the inmate performing work on vehicles and equipment at the business. Investigators also determined that the inmate assisted with raising a sunken boat that was not government property.

The investigation further found that the inmate operated vehicles without supervision while at the private business and used tobacco products. Investigators also determined that Frank had not completed the inmate supervision training required by the Tennessee Corrections Institute.

Based upon this investigation, on April 1, 2026, the Monroe County Grand Jury indicted Jamey Lee Frank on one count of official misconduct and one count of unlawful use of inmates. On May 6, 2026, the Monroe County Grand Jury indicted Neal Alan Townsend on one count of official misconduct and one count of unlawful use of inmates.

“Sheriff’s departments must maintain clear procedures for inmate supervision and movement,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “The sheriff’s department must also have a document process for vehicle assignments and use, and develop a policy for assigning, tracking, and terminating physical keycard access.”

To view the investigative report, go to HERE and Associated Exhibit HERE 

HERE AT HOME – Knox County, TN

THIS from 2021, Knox County Sheriff’s Office of Professional Standards reviewed, no word of Comptroller reviewed or not.