The Franklin Police Department is actively seeking assistance from the public in locating a man who has failed to commence his prison sentence after being convicted on multiple charges, including the assault of a police officer. Roy Nicholson III, 28, was to surrender on Jan. 2 to begin serving a five-year term after being convicted of striking an officer with his vehicle during a 2022 traffic stop. However, Nicholson failed to present himself, prompting law enforcement to issue a capias warrant for his arrest, as reported by WKRN.
Details of the incident stem back to an April 2022 confrontation on Interstate 65, where, according to WSMV, Nicholson attempted to elude a traffic stop and consequently struck Franklin Police Officer Dustyn Stevens with his vehicle. The charges laid against him included reckless aggravated assault, evading arrest with a deadly weapon (vehicle), possession of marijuana with intent to sell, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony. A conviction on these counts followed in August 2024, and Nicholson's sentencing occurred in November of that same year.
The Franklin Police Department is urging anyone who may have information regarding Nicholson’s current whereabouts to make contact. Individuals with knowledge related to the case can call the Franklin Police Department at (615) 794-2513 or Crime Stoppers of Williamson County at (615) 794-4000. It has been emphasized that tipsters have the option to remain anonymous, underscoring the department's priority of encouraging any potential leads.
In building a more comprehensive profile of the case, Fox17 added that Nicholson was identified as a resident of Columbia and clarified the specific charges for which he was convicted. The community has been reminded that Nicholson's evasion not only challenges the judicial system's authority but also raises concerns over public safety, given his demonstrated willingness to use a vehicle as deadly weapon.
