On July 17, 2023, Putnam County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) at approximately 4am in the morning, that Deputy Mia Godinez had been involved in a single car vehicle accident while operating her personal vehicle.

THP indicated Godinez had been transported to Cookeville Regional Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries and was later released. THP also stated that upon release from CMC Godinez will be charged with Driving Under the Influence.

As a result, Godinez resigned from the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Farris stated, “Although I am thankful that Deputy Godinez’s injuries were non-life-threatening, I am saddened by the behavior and outcome of Deputy Godinez. Deputy Godinez had been a good Deputy and had contributed to this Office during her time as a Deputy.” Deputy Godinez has been a Deputy for the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office since August 5, 2022.