The Sevier County Sheriff's Office recently reported a breakthrough in a series of auto burglaries that had affected the New Center Community. In a social media post, Sheriff Michael R. Hodges, Jr. thanked community members for their assistance in helping to identify a suspect. "Thank you to the folks from the New Center Community for their continued cooperation, which assisted in the apprehension of the person responsible for these crimes. Our Detectives worked diligently to solve these cases and we are grateful for the assistance of our partner agencies," he said.
As outlined by the Sheriff's Office, the series of burglaries was first reported on May 5. An investigation by Sevier County Sheriff detectives, in collaboration with the Knox County Sheriff's Office and the Sevierville Police Department, led to a breakthrough last Tuesday. A suspect was identified, along with a vehicle linked to the crimes. Through interviews with victims and neighbors, detectives gathered evidence pointing to 44-year-old Brian Jamar Underwood from Knoxville.
Underwood was arrested and charged with seven counts of auto burglary, as well as additional charges including vandalism, fraudulent use of a credit/debit card, forgery, and theft of property. The arrest follows a collaborative effort between regional law enforcement agencies. Underwood is currently held at the Sevier County Jail and is awaiting a hearing in General Sessions Court.
Sheriff Hodges recognized the New Center Community for their support during the investigation, noting the collaborative effort between law enforcement and the public. Community members worked with detectives to help identify the suspect, contributing to the case's resolution. The Sheriff's Office referenced Sevier County’s designation as the #bestcountyonearth in their social media announcement.
