The Knoxville Police Department (KPD) has initiated an internal investigation after Officer Tyler Wheeler, a uniformed officer sworn in September 2023, was caught shoplifting from a convenience store on Kingston Pike around 10 p.m. on Saturday. Following a report received on Monday, KPD determined that Wheeler, while on duty, went behind the counter, took multiple pouches of Kratom valued at approximately $30 each, and left without paying.

After further investigation by the Property Crimes Unit and consultation with the Knox County District Attorney’s Office, Wheeler was issued a misdemeanor citation for theft and placed on administrative re-assignment with his police powers suspended. The Office of Professional Standards is now conducting an internal probe.

Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel condemned Wheeler’s actions, stating they disgrace the department’s oath and tarnish the reputation of officers who serve with integrity, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable and that KPD demands accountability at all levels.