Former Warren Sheriffs Investigator Placed On Probation After Guilty Plea

A former Warren County Sherriff’s Investigator has been placed on probation after pleading guilty to three counts of official misconduct.

Steven Carpenter received a five-year sentence. He is barred from service as a police officer in Tennessee.

Investigators audited evidence in September, 2022. Irregularities were found in certain records and evidence. District Attorney General Craig Northcott said the investigation found Carpenter failed to secure and document evidence properly.

“There was nothing found to suggest that any evidence was improperly used or sold by Mr. Carpenter,” Northcott said in a release. “However, his failure to perform his job duties compromised the ability to use evidence to achieve justice through the prosecution of those committing criminal offenses in Warren County and caused doubt as to the sanctity of evidence used, at least in part, as the basis of pending cases.”

The TBI joined the DA’s office in the investigation.

Official misconduct is a Class E felony. He could have face a five-year prison sentence if he fails to meet the probation conditions.