Tennessee State Trooper Placed on Leave Pending Internal Investigation

NASHVILLE --- Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security officials have placed a Tennessee State Trooper assigned to the Lawrenceburg District on discretionary leave with pay pending an investigation by the department’s Inspectional Services Bureau.  The internal investigation stems from a criminal investigation by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) into possible hunting violations.

TWRA agents are investigating an incident on November 19 in which Trooper Barry Qualls allegedly shot and killed a deer on a 46-acre privately owned tract of land located on Highway 64 West in Bedford County.

The department’s internal investigation focuses on whether Qualls violated Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) policies and procedures during this alleged incident.  All departmental equipment including weapons, badges and commission card were secured pending the investigation. 

Trooper Qualls, 38, started his career with the THP in 2002. Initially assigned to Lawrence County, he was transferred to Bedford County in 2006.

It is the Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s policy to warn, suspend, demote or dismiss any employee whenever just or legal cause exists. Employees shall not commit any act that would reflect discredit upon themselves or the Department while on or off duty.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security’s (www.TN.Gov/safety) mission is to ensure that our state is a safe, secure place in which to live, work and travel; enforce the law with integrity; and provide customer-focused services professionally and efficiently.

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