Fentress County Sheriff Michael Reagon in East Tennessee is facing potential decertification by the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST) after allegedly attempting to defraud the state. Reagon reportedly asked a subordinate to complete six hours of mandatory online training on his behalf, which is prohibited.

Although he admitted responsibility, the incident may have made him eligible for an $800 salary supplement he did not receive, raising concerns about defrauding the state.

The POST investigator interviewed both Reagon and the detective involved, and while Reagon apologized and sought leniency, the commission expressed serious concerns about his actions. Legal expert T. Scott Jones emphasized that such behavior undermines an officer’s credibility, which is critical in law enforcement and can impact their effectiveness in trials.

Reagon now faces an informal hearing this spring, potentially followed by a formal hearing where evidence will be presented.

The Fentress County District Attorney recused his office from the case, and D. Michael Dunavant was appointed as a special prosecutor, though no further comments have been made due to the ongoing investigation.