The Knoxville Police Department took to social media to announce the arrest of Richard Shaver in Sevier County, a man previously at large and wanted on multiple charges connected to sexual misconduct as an authority figure. In a post dated Friday at 8:20 p.m., the department expressed its gratitude towards the public for assistance in disseminating information that led to Shaver's detention, highlighting the role of community involvement in law enforcement efforts.
Before his capture, Shaver, a 57-year-old from Knoxville, was sought on an indictment which included four counts of sexual battery by an authority figure and two counts of attempted sexual battery by an authority figure, according to a post by the Knoxville Police Department on Saturday, he was believed to be hiding in the Gatlinburg area and driving a white Chrysler Pacifica. Law enforcement officials had urged anyone with information about Shaver's whereabouts to contact the East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers.
Citizens were encouraged to provide tips anonymously and were told they could qualify for a cash reward, fostering a sense of participation and responsibility among the populace toward ensuring safety and justice within their communities. The car Shaver was believed to be driving had a Tennessee license plate number 315-BDVN, with the authorities emphasizing the importance of vigilance and public awareness in apprehending those accused of serious crimes.
