CASE UPDATE

posted in: News Event

On Monday, October 20, 2025, Judge Freiberg sentenced Michael Wayne Harris to 18 years in prison.  Harris is now in the custody of the Tennessee Department of Corrections, where he will serve the remainder of his sentence.  His conviction stems from a search warrant executed on May 12, 2023, during which he was arrested and charged with Possession of Schedule II methamphetamine for resale.  Following a jury trial on June 18, 2025, Harris was found guilty on June 19th.

Local Man Convicted of Illegal Drug Sales (Revised)

The  Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) announces the successful conviction of Michael Wayne Harris, a 46 year old white male, from Madisonville, TN. 

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office received multiple complaints of illicit drug sale activity taking place at M&H Express Trucking, 3236 North Highway 68, Madisonville.  Following an eight month investigation, a search warrant was executed on March 3, 2023 at M&H Express Trucking.  The result of the search warrant produced ¼ pound  of methamphetamine found inside a camper located on the property. 

MCSO Detectives consulted with the District Attorney regarding their findings and subsequently issued a warrant for Mr. Harris.  On May 12, 2023, Mr. Harris was arrested and charged with Possession of Schedule 2 Methamphetamine For Resale.

On June 18, 2025, Mr. Harris’ case went to a jury trial.  The trial concluded on June 19, 2025 with a jury verdict of guilty.  Judge Andrew Freiberg revoked Mr. Harris’ bond and remanded him into the custody of MCSO.  Mr. Harris’ sentencing is scheduled for September 2025, where he could face a jail sentence of 12-20 years.

MCSO would like to thank the Fifth Judicial Drug Task Force (which included Blount County agents) and the Madisonville Police Department for their investigative assistance with this case.  In addition, MCSO would like to thank 10th Judicial Assistant District Attorneys Paul Rush and Leah Spradlin, both prosecutors representing District Attorney Steven Hatchett’s Office.

“This conviction represents a significant step in our ongoing commitment to keeping illegal drugs off our streets and ensuring the safety of our community.  I commend the dedication of our detectives and partner agencies whose work made this outcome possible.” said Sheriff Tommy Jones.

NOTE:  This case has been forwarded to the US Attorney, Eastern District of Tennessee, for further review due to the possibility of additional charges.