A former Union County deputy has been indicted following an investigation into an alleged use of excessive force. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) announced the indictment after looking into a use-of-force incident that took place earlier this year. Ashton Cole Lambert, the former deputy in question, reportedly exercised excessive force in the process of arresting a woman in Maynardville on April 10, 2025.
The investigation was initiated at the direction of 8th Judicial District Attorney General Jared Effler, in April. Lambert's conduct was scrutinized and resulted in, his termination by the Union County Sheriff’s Office. On December 2nd, the Union County Grand Jury returned indictments charging him with one count of Assault and one count of Official Oppression. He turned himself in and posted a $2,500 bond after being booked into the Union County Jail on December 11th.
As the case proceeds, it is important to remember that these are only accusations. Lambert, born February 9, 1993, has not been found guilty; he is presumed innocent unless proven otherwise through legal proceedings. The formal charges highlight an ongoing conversation about the use of force by law enforcement personnel, and community concerns rise around these notable cases.
The information surrounding Lambert's indictment has stirred public interest, with many awaiting the outcome of what could be a significant court proceeding. The charges and allegations mentioned are, "merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence," as emphasized by the TBI statement about the case. Lambert's fate will be determined based on the evidence brought forward during trial, and the presumption of innocence remains a cornerstone of the legal process until proven guilty.
