A Knoxville mother was sentenced to 10 years after prosecutors say she brought fentanyl into a hospital visit that left her teen permanently disabled. The DA framed the case as a stark example of fentanyl’s dangers.

A late-night fire at 4704 Rutledge Pike sent Knoxville firefighters to the scene and closed State Route 1. Photos identify the building as Bel Corpo medical spa.

A Knox County jury convicted Vernon Dee Johnson Jr. on meth, fentanyl and firearm charges. He faces a minimum of 32 more years and is due for sentencing on Sept. 18, 2026.