A STORY OF REDEMPTION, HOPE, AND SECOND CHANCES

Some stories need more than one post to be told properly.  This is one of them.  In the coming days, we will be sharing a five-part series about a man who was born and raised in Tellico Plains.  Like many, his life took a different turn at a young age when addiction took hold.  What followed were years of hard choices, repeated setbacks, and time spent in and out of jail.  Eventually he reached rock bottom.

Then one day, everything changed.

A single person walked into his life and offered guidance, accountability, and belief-something he had never truly known,  That moment became the turning point that led him down a completely different path.

 

Today, this man is still in jail every day-but not as an inmate.  He is there as a teacher, mentor, and example, helping incarcerated individuals see that change is possible and that their past does not have to define their future.

This powerful story is about redemption, transformation, and the impact one person can have on another’s life.  It’s a reminder that second chances matter.

We hope you will follow along and take the time to read this series.  It is a story worth telling-and one we hope you will find as meaningful as we do.

 

Part One: The Early Years and the Road to Rock Bottom

Darby Frerichs was born and raised in Tellico Plains, Tennessee.  Like many young people growing up in a small community, Darby had big dreams.  In 2004, he graduated from Tellico Plains High School with hopes of attending college and playing ball.  A talented athlete, Darby played football, basketball, and baseball, and his ultimate goal was to play professional football after college.

Darby had the talent to succeed, but talent alone wasn’t enough.  During high school, Darby struggled with a poor attitude, which ultimately prevented him from moving on to college athletics.  When his plans fell apart, the disappointment hit hard.  He became depressed, and that depression only fueled the anger and frustration he already carried.

After high school, at the age of 18, Darby began experimenting with drugs and his struggles soon took a darker turn as his drug use increased.  What started as casual use escalated into full-blown addiction.  Over the next 14 years, Darby’s life revolved around substance abuse including pain killers (although he never had a serious injury), methamphetamine, fentanyl, marajuana, and other drugs. 

As the addiction worsened, so did Darby’s outlook on life.  He became increasingly angry and depressed, unable to hold steady employment and unable to break free from the cycle he had fallen into.  Jail became a familiar place.  During those years, Darby was in and out of custody at the Blount, Knox, Meigs, McMinn, Monroe, and Polk County Jails, and he also served time in Georgia and North Carolina.  It appeared that addiction, incarceration, and instability were going to define the rest of his life.

In August of 2018, fourteen years after graduating high school, Darby's downward spiral reached a critical moment.  He became involved in a 70-mile vehicle pursuit beginning in Monroe County and ending in Polk County, involving more than a dozen law enforcement officers from multiple agencies, across multiple jurisdictions.  During the chase, Darby’s vehicle blew a tire-but even that didn’t stop him.  He continued driving on the rim, determined to escape.

His plan was to drive toward the forest, abandon the vehicle, and run into the woods.  However, the vehicle ran out of gas in Polk County, bringing the chase to an end.  Knowing he was caught and in possession of drugs, Darby swallowed them in an attempt to hide the evidence.

Darby was forcibly removed from the vehicle, detained, arrested, and transported to the Polk County Jail.  Looking back, Darby described that moment with a single thought:  “I thought my life was over.”  While he admitted he knew escape was unlikely, he also said there is “always a chance,” and he intended to take it as far as he could.

After spending several days in a booking cell, Darby was moved into general population to await his court date-uncertain of what the future held, but believing he had finally reached the end of the road.

 

Part Two: A Decision That Changed Everything

When Darby Frerichs went to court in Polk County, he faced the same charges as he did in Monroe County.  Because of that, he was given a choice-he could serve his time in either county jail.

Logic would have suggested Monroe County.  That was home.  His family lived there.  He knew the jail well, having been incarcerated there more than 30 times over the years.  Polk County, on the other hand, was unfamiliar.  He didn’t know anyone there.  Yet for reasons he still can’t fully explain, Darby chose to stay in Polk County-a decision that would ultimately change his life forever.

While housed at the Polk County Jail, Darby began noticing something unusual.  The jail chaplain, John Miles, came into the pod every single day.  Some days he stayed for 15 minutes; other days, he stayed for hours.  As an adult, Darby wasn’t religious, and like many people struggling with addiction and repeated incarceration, he was extremely put off by law enforcement and anyone associated with the system.

So, he did what jail gives you plenty of time to do-he observed.

For weeks, then months, Darby watched Chaplain Miles interact with inmates.  Eventually, he realized something was different.  John wasn't fake.  He wasn’t putting on a show.  He was loving, caring, and-most importantly-genuine.

Darby later said, “I wanted to see if he was real or not.”

After about three months, Darby finally took the initiative to talk to him.  Soon after, Darby enrolled in a Narcotics Anonymous/Alcoholics Anonymous class that met once a week on Fridays.  At first, his motivation wasn’t recovery-it was paperwork.  He needed to attend 12 classes to earn a certificate he could show the court, hoping it would help him get out sooner.

His goal wasn’t to change.  His goal was to look like he was trying.

But something unexpected happened along the way.

As Darby  continued attending the classes and watching John Miles work with others, he realized that John wasn’t “all talk.”  He lived what he preached.  He was consistent, honest, and invested in people-including Darby.

The first class Darby took focused on making amends.  Participants were instructed to write letters to those they had hurt.  The first people Darby chose were his parents.

“I was broken,” he said.

Darby began the letter with the words, “Dear Mom and Dad.”  And for a long time, that’s all he could write.  No sentences followed-only tears soaking the paper.  Later that day, he was able to finish the letter and mail it.

He had written apology letters from jail before, but this one was different.

“I knew this letter wouldn’t mean anything to them,” he said.  “But this time, it meant something to me.”

He also wrote letters to his two brothers, beginning to confront the damage he had caused.

 

Over time, Darby formed a close relationship with Chaplain Miles.  He was constantly asking him, “What do I do next?”  Each time, John would give him a Bible verse or stories to read.  The next day, John would return and ask Darby about them.  They would talk, reflect, and discuss their meaning.  This was the beginning of Darby’s journey to rededicating his life to Jesus.

Darby spent two years in the Polk County Jail.  As time passed, he could feel something changing inside him.

He later enrolled in an Overcomer’s Class, another 12-step program focused on overcoming hurts, habits, and hang-ups.  The course lasted about 14 weeks, and Darby completed it and received his certificate.  Darby would eventually teach the Overcomer’s class to other inmates while incarcerated at Polk County Jail.

Chaplain Miles taught him, talked with him, prayed with him, and walked beside him through the process.  Darby later said that besides his father, John Miles is the best man he knows.

In February 2020, Darby was released from Polk County Jail and transferred back to Monroe County on the same charges.  He remained there for 45 days, but the charges were ultimately dismissed since he had already served time for them in Polk County.

He was then transferred briefly to McMinn County Jail for a probation violation, staying there for three days.

On February 13, 2020, Darby Frerichs was finally free.

 

His mother came to pick him up.  Having been transferred multiple times,Darby didn’t have his own clothes and was wearing items from the lost and found.  It was cold outside, so his mom handed him a hoodie.  As he pulled it over his head, he paused.

He smelled the laundry detergent.

“It smelled so good,” he said.  He couldn’t wait to get home.

The first thing he did was eat his mom’s lasagna. And for the first time in a long time, he put his daughter to bed.

 

Incarceration was over-but the work had just begun.  For nearly two decades, Darby had known only addiction, instability, and jail cells.  Now, suddenly, he was free.  And freedom, he quickly learned, could be overwhelming.  

The simple things felt strange.  Quiet felt strange.  Choices felt heavy.  Darby found himself standing in the kitchen at night, staring into the refrigerator and freezer, not because he was hungry, but because he wasn’t used to having options.  For years, everything had been controlled for him.  Now nothing was.

Darby knew one thing for certain-he didn’t want to go back to the life he had just left behind.

 

Shortly after his release, Darby enrolled in a TCAT-certificed welding school in Athens, a one year program that would provide him with a skill, c certification, and-most importantly-a chance at a legitimate future.  Welding wasn’t easy.  The work was demanding, the expectations were high, and the discipline required was something Darby had never truly mastered before.

 

But this time was different.

 

He showed up. Every day. Sober.  When things got difficult, he leaned on what he had learned in jail-accountability, humility, and the importance of asking for help.  Sobriety wasn’t something he took for granted.  He attended meetings, stayed connected to positive influences, and remained in contact with Chaplain John Miles, who continued to guide and encourage him even after his release.

 

There were temptations. Old friends. Old habits. Old thoughts that told him he wasn't good enough or that he would eventually fail anyway.  Darby admitted those moments were some of the hardest.

“This was the first time I couldn’t run,” he said.  “I had to deal with things instead of escaping.”

For the first time in years, Darby had something he hadn’t had in a very long time-

A future.

 

Darby began the slow and difficult process of rebuilding trust-with his parents, brothers, and most importantly, his young daughter.  He understood that apologies alone weren’t enough.  Trust would come only through consistency, honesty, and time.

Some days were victories.  Other days were just survival.  But Darby learned that staying sober didn’t mean being perfect-it meant being willing.

Welding school gave him structure.  Sobriety gave him clarity.  And faith-something he never expected to matter to him-gave him purpose.  The lessons he once resisted were now the ones guiding his decisions.

For the first time since high school, Darby wasn’t chasing an escape.  He was building something.

And while the future was still uncertain, one thing was clear-Darby Frerich was no longer defined by his worst decisions.  He was learning how to live free, one day at a time.

 

Part 3: Change Begins in the Parking Lot

In 2020, COVID-19 was impacting every part of life.  That year, Darby’s daughter was graduating from kindergarten.  Because indoor gatherings were not allowed, the school held a drive-thru graduation.  Families decorated their vehicles with photos of their graduates, and the kindergartners rode through the school grounds while loved ones cheered from their cars.

Darby proudly attended the graduation with his daughter and his mother.  While sitting in the parking area, he noticed a sheriff’s deputy preparing to direct traffic.  The deputy was struggling to put on his reflective vest.  Without fully understanding why, Darby felt compelled to get out and help him.

At the time, Darby admits he didn’t gravitate toward law enforcement or authority figures.  But something inside him urged him to help.  The deputy turned out to be Bobby DeSanto-someone Darby vaguely recognized from about three years earlier during his time in the Monroe County Jail.

As Darby helped adjust the vest, Bobby didn’t recognize Darby right away-when Darby told him who he was, Bobby looked up at him and said “You’re Darby?”  Darby’s appearance had changed over the years-for the better.  Bobby then asked him how he was doing. Darby began talking-really talking.  He shared how his life had changed, how Jesus had transformed him, and how recovery had reshaped his future.  Bobby didn’t ask many questions; Darby’s story simply poured out.

 

While Bobby was waiting for another deputy to arrive, Monroe County Sheriff Tommy Jones approached and stood nearby.  Darby continued sharing-this time about Narcotics Anonymous, the impact John Miles had made on his life, teaching inmates at the Polk County Jail, and his belief that inmates at the Monroe County Jail should have access to programs like Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, and the Overcomer’s class.

At the time, the Sheriff’s Office was operating out of the old jail, which was overcrowded and lacked space for structured programming.  Still, Sheriff Jones listened intently and asked Darby to tell him more about the classes.

Then, to Darby’s complete surprise, Sheriff Jones said, 'Why don’t you come teach for me?’

Darby was immediately overwhelmed with self-doubt.  He didn’t feel qualified.  He questioned whether anyone would listen to him.  Sheriff Jones reassured him, explaining that Darby’s lived experience was exactly what made him qualified-that he could resonate with inmates in a way others couldn’t.

Sheriff Jones needed an answer by 10:00 a.m. the next morning.  Darby asked for time to pray about it and to speak with his mentors.  Sheriff Jones agreed.

Darby’s mother had been standing beside him throughout the entire conversation, listening quietly.  That evening, Darby went home and talked with his parents.  The next morning, he went to welding school as usual.  At 9:00 a.m., during his break, he called his mentor, John Miles.

Darby told John he needed to pray with him about something.  John responded, “Pray about what-teaching?”

Darby nearly dropped the phone.

John explained that he had already been praying about this very opportunity.  When Darby told him it involved teaching at the Monroe County Jail, John was overjoyed.

Darby went back to class, continually looking down at this watch.  At five minutes to 10:00 a.m., he stepped outside and called Sheriff Tommy Jones.

He said, “Yes. I want to take you up on your offer.  I want to teach.  I want to teach the Overcomer’s class.”

Shortly after, Darby began meeting regularly with Bobby DeSanto to work out the logistics-what would be taught, how many students in each class, what supplies were needed, and where the classes would be held.

 

The first Overcomer's class took place in July of 2020.  That moment marked the beginning of Darby’s work inside the Monroe County Jail.  His very first class consisted of six students.

Since then, Darby has seen approximately 250 graduates complete the program.  Today, there are two classes held every Friday, each with 12 students, and every class is consistently full.  Each course runs 15 weeks.

Over time, Darby and John revamped the curriculum, transforming the Overcomers class into what is now known as the Freedom Class.  Darby helped design the updated content, and John wrote a new book that became the foundation of the program.  Together, they strengthened the course with deeper, more impactful material.

While continuing to volunteer at the jail, Darby graduated from welding school and worked full-time at Miller’s Welding from 2022 to 2024.  Despite his full schedule, he remained committed to teaching and mentoring inmates.

 

Part 4:  The Transition Coordinator

On March 1, 2024, Darby Frerichs officially became the Transition Coordinator for the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office-a full-time position with benefits, marking a significant milestone in both his career and personal journey.  In this role, Darby’s primary responsibilities center on teaching, including Digital Literacy and several RDAP (Residential Drug Addiction Program) classes.  He also conducts risk and needs assessment interviews with new inmates, helping identify educational goals and determining whether they may benefit from services such as meeting with the facility’s in-house Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).  In addition, Darby coordinates with outside rehabilitation providers and community resources to connect inmates with support and services they will need upon release.  He works with inmates to explore future opportunities, such as earning a GED or enrolling in vocational programs like welding and HVAC, and he occasionally escorts qualifying inmates to off-site educational classes when an armed guard is not required.  This position represents a powerful transformation, as Darby has gone from being an inmate once trying to envision his own future to now guiding others as they work toward building a better one.

 

When asked how long he plans to continue working at the jail and providing ministry services, Darby happily states-with a big smile on his face:

“I’ll be here until he (Jones) kicks me out!”

 

Part 5:  What this Opportunity Means

When asked what this opportunity means to him, Darby answers without hesitation:

“Everything.”

 

He never imagined this life would be possible.  A three-time felon now working full-time for the Sheriff’s Office-with full access and responsibility-was beyond anything he once believed could happen.  There was a time when Darby didn’t even trust himself.  Today, he is trusted by others.

That trust means more to him than words can express.

 

He takes immense pride in what he does.  The work is deeply rewarding-helping people, encouraging them, guiding them toward rehabilitation, and providing education and resources to inmates who are searching for a way out of the same cycle he once lived in.  His goal is simple but powerful: to give others hope that they can leave the jail, manage their addictions, and become productive members of society.

When asked about his parents, Darby’s voice softens.

They are incredibly proud-not only of the changes he’s made, but of the father he has become.

 

His daughter is now in fifth grade, and Darby says he can’t fully put into words the connection they share today.  It’s a bond that didn’t exist  during her early years, a time when addiction had taken so much-including, at one point, custody of his only child.

 

Now, Darby looks forward to being present for every milestone in her life.  From that kindergarten graduation a few short years ago, to high school graduation, possibly college, and-if God allows- one day walking her down the aisle.  More than anything, he hopes she will be proud of the man her father has become.

 

Today, Darby continues to work daily inside the Monroe County Jail.  As he teaches, he often sees reflections of his former self in the inmates sitting before him.  They watch him closely.  They observe how he carries himself, how he speaks, and how he treats others.

 

In almost every class, Darby recognizes someone-someone he knows, or someone he was once incarcerated with.  That gives him credibility that can’t be taught or faked.  The inmates know he’s been where they are.

 

Outside the jail, Darby remains deeply involved in the community.  He leads a Celebrate Recovery program for non-incarcerated individuals-a 12 step program open to anyone struggling with addiction or personal challenges.  The group meets every Monday night.

 

He also ministers monthly to incarcerated men through the Calvary Baptist Church in Coker Creek.  And, beyond formal programs, Darby spends his days mentoring and encouraging inmates whenever they are open to it.

When asked what he is most thankful for about working at the jail, Darby didn’t hesitate:

“It’s the best job in the world!”

 

He expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to work under Sheriff Tommy Jones and alongside the staff, specifically thanking Bobby, Karl, Brandy and Larry for their support and belief in him.

 

Finally, when asked if he regrets anything from his past, Darby offers a surprising answer.

 

He says he doesn’t regret it.

 

Not because it wasn’t painful-but because those experiences taught him how to love harder, care more deeply, and be more passionate about the work he does today.  He believes God had a plan all along, even through the darkest moments.

 

Darby believes he is now walking in that purpose.

 

He is happy doing this work-and he intends to continue doing it for as long as he can.

 

Editor’s note:  On February 6, 2026-six years since his last incarceration-Darby Frerichs is going to be submitting his application packet to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee requesting a full pardon of the three felony convictions remaining on his record.  We at the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office fully support this effort and are assisting in any way possible.

 

We hope you have enjoyed reading this remarkable story about an extraordinary man.  Darby has received several letters of support for his pardon request from our community and community leaders.  Rather than posting all of the letters, we took a meaningful quote from some of them to share with you below:

 

“It is rare in law enforcement to witness such a complete and sustained transformation, and rarer still to place the level of trust in an individual that our office has placed in Darby, a three-time felon with a fourteen year history of addiction.  He has earned that trust through years of consistent service, integrity, and dedication to helping others avoid the path he once traveled. Darby’s transformation is extraordinary, sincere, and lasting.” 

Sheriff Tommy J. Jones, II

Monroe County Sheriff

 

“Darby’s work ethic is extraordinary.  I have often said that I wish I had three more employees like him.  He is hardworking, extremely dedicated, and deeply compassionate about the work he does and the inmates he serves.  He truly cares about helping others and takes great pride in providing guidance, education, encouragement, and support to those who need it most.”

Jake Keener

Jail Administrator

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office

 

“Since his release Darby has continued to serve Jesus and has started working at the Monroe County Jail in assisting inmates in transition back to normal life that includes a relationship with God.  This is the 1st time I have written a letter such as this and do not take it lightly.”

Sheriff Steve Ross

Polk County Sheriff

 

“I have great confidence that Mr. Frerichs is enjoying his new life so much that his former life will never hold any attraction for him.  He continues to be a great role model for other young men learning to navigate their choices in this life.  We need more examples like Darby Frerichs to influence our young men and women today.”

John Miles

Chaplin

Polk County Jail

 

“Through his faith, testimony, and tireless service, Darby shows what Jesus can truly do: turn ashes into purpose, brokenness into hope, and former captives into leaders who set others free.  If you’re struggling, Darby’s life shouts one undeniable truth-recovery and new life are possible in Christ.”

Cody Dalton

Pastor and Friend

Cane Creek Baptist Church

 

I have known Darby for some time, and I can confidently state that he has made a complete transformation in his character, values, and direction in life.  He has taken full responsibility for his past and has demonstrated true rehabilitation through consistent actions, not just words.  Darby is now a positive and productive member of the community who actively works to help others.

Adam Russell

Lieutenant

Madisonville Police Department

 

On behalf of Darby, Sheriff Jones and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office staff, thank you for taking the time to read this incredible, real-life story about one of our own.