Carter County Sheriff facing lawsuit

A trial date has been set for a lawsuit filed against Carter County Sheriff Mike Fraley, several deputies, and the county. The trial will start on April 13, 2027 and is expected to last five days. Church leaders claim deputies showed up armed and in uniform, without a warrant, and making threats against the pastor and deacon. The lawsuit accuses the sheriff’s department of violating their constitutional rights. The pastor and deacon are seeking $3 million in damages, alleging violations of religious freedom, unlawful search and seizure, and civil conspiracy. A jury trial has been requested.