University of Tennessee Police Department

10/14/2026

ARREST UPDATE: (10-14-2026)- University of Tennessee Police have charged an individual in connection with felony vandalism that occurred over the weekend.

Beckett Edward Nachtman, 19, of New Jersey, has been charged with one count of felony vandalism in connection with the damage done to the Smokey statue outside of Gate 21 Plaza in the early morning hours of October 10, 2026.

Investigators determined that Nachtman, who is not affiliated with UT, was visiting individuals on campus when the incident occurred.

He has been booked into the Knox County Detention Center.

10/12/2026

University of Tennessee Police Chief Sean Patterson Named to PERF Board

The University of Tennessee Police Department is proud to announce that Chief Sean Patterson has been named to the Board of Directors of the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) as its new ex-officio member.

PERF is a nationally recognized organization of police executives dedicated to improving policing through innovation, research, and the advancement of professional practices. As an ex-officio board member, Chief Patterson will contribute to discussions on critical public safety issues, emerging law enforcement trends, and strategies that help shape the future of policing across the country.

“Serving on the PERF Board is a tremendous honor and an opportunity to collaborate with law enforcement leaders from across the nation,” Patterson said. “I look forward to sharing the unique perspectives and challenges that members of campus police agencies face while helping advance innovative, community-focused public safety practices.”

Patterson brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience and a distinguished record of leadership in public safety. He joined UTPD as assistant chief in 2020 after retiring as a lieutenant with the New York City Police Department's (NYPD) Emergency Service Unit, where he served for more than 21 years. He was promoted to chief of UTPD in November 2023.

He has also contributed directly to PERF’s work through curriculum development and instruction in critical incident response, community-oriented policing, police use of force, and de-escalation techniques. Patterson has taught the Integrating Communications, Assessment and Tactics (ICAT) program to law enforcement agencies across the country.

Patterson’s appointment reflects his extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency response, training, and leadership, as well as the important role university police departments play in advancing public safety and building strong relationships with the communities they serve.

Patterson is joined on the PERF board by:

• Chief John Drake, Metropolitan Nashville (TN) Police Department, president.
• Chief Lisa Davis, Austin (TX) Police Department, vice president.
• Commissioner Kevin Bethel, Philadelphia (PA) Police Department, treasurer.
• Chief Rec Troche, Sarasota (FL) Police Department, secretary
• Commissioner Robert Tracy, St. Louis (MO) Metropolitan Police Department, member at large.
• Chief Ana Lalley, Elgin (IL) Police Department, member at large.
• Chief Bob Day, Portland (OR) Police Bureau, member at large.

The University of Tennessee Police Department congratulates Chief Patterson on this achievement and looks forward to the contributions he will make in his new role with PERF while continuing to lead public safety efforts on Rocky Top.

About PERF:
The Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), founded in 1976, is an independent research organization focused on improving policing and advancing professionalism through research, education, innovation, and the exchange of best practices among law enforcement leaders nationwide. To see more: https://www.policeforum.org/

10/08/2026

🐾 Please welcome two new members of the UTPD family: K9 Boh and K9 Whaley!

Boh, a patrol apprehension K9, will serve alongside Cpl. Quirin and take on the role previously held by K9 Bruno. Boh is named in honor of former UTPD Officer Benjamin Bohanan, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in 2004 after leaving his shift.

Whaley, an explosive detection K9, will serve alongside K9 Officer May and succeed retiring K9 Kale. Whaley’s name honors the memory and service of Sgt. Phil Whaley, keeping that connection to UTPD and the university community alive.

While Boh and Whaley have different jobs, they share something meaningful: both carry the names of members of the UTPD family whose service continues to be remembered.

These new K9s will become more than specialized members of the department. They’ll be trusted partners to their handlers and fellow officers as they train, respond and work to help keep the University of Tennessee community safe.

Welcome to UTPD, Boh and Whaley! We’re excited to see the legacy you’ll carry forward. 🧡🐾

Read more here: tiny.utk.edu/LewKx

10/06/2026

💰 Tips to Crime Stoppers leading to an arrest or recovery of stolen bikes may qualify for a reward up to $2,000.

🚨 ATTEMPT TO ID: UTPD 🚨

UTPD is looking to identify this person regarding recent bicycle thefts on and around the UT campus.

If you recognize him, stay 100% anonymous & tip East TN Valley Crime Stoppers:

📱 App: P3 Tips
📞 Call: 877-363-8477 or dial **TIPS
💬 Text: "ETTips" to 738477
🌐 Online: easttnvalleycrimestoppers.org

💰 Tips to Crime Stoppers leading to an arrest or recovery of stolen bikes may qualify for a reward up to $2,000.

Do NOT post names in the comments!

University of Tennessee Police Department

10/04/2026

📸 PHOTOS: Take a look at some of the sights from game day, including behind-the-scenes moments and the dedicated officers, first responders, and partner agencies who worked together to help keep fans safe in and around Neyland Stadium.

We especially appreciate the support of Knoxville Police Department - TN, Blount County Sheriff's Office, Knox County Sheriff's Office, Loudon County Sheriff's Office, TN, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office,Tennessee,Jefferson City Police Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Pigeon Forge Police Department, Knoxville Fire Department - TN, UT Medical, Knox County Rescue, Anderson County Sheriff's Office TN and many more!

See you next time in Neyland Stadium! Stay safe, Vols.

10/03/2026

That's a wrap from Neyland Stadium with a win over Auburn!

Be responsible and prioritize your safety and the safety of others around you. Get a designated driver, use public transportation, or utilize rideshare services to ensure you arrive home safely.

Use patience in traffic as you make your way from the stadium, and make your way around campus carefully.

Please be patient and stay safe, Vols!

10/03/2026

We're closing in on kickoff!

A lot of our officers & partner agencies are in high-vis attire so you can easily spot us if you need help — we’re here for you!

Have a great and safe time cheering for Tennessee Football today!

Stay safe, Vols!

10/03/2026

🌧️🏈 It’s a rainy morning on Rocky Top! 🍊

The rain is coming down now, but the forecast is looking like things should clear out before this afternoon’s events. If you’re heading out for game day at the University of Tennessee, take your time, watch those wet roads and sidewalks, and give yourself a little extra time getting where you need to go.

Then settle in and cheer on Tennessee Football as they take on Auburn! 🧡🤍

🚗 Park smart: lock your vehicle and remove valuables.
🚕 If you’re under the influence, don’t drive-have a sober ride ready.
⏳ Pack your patience along with your rain gear!
☔ Puddles happen… dancing in them is optional.

Whether you’re headed to Neyland Stadium, tailgating with friends, or cheering from home, stay safe, enjoy the day, and bring that Rocky Top spirit with you!

10/02/2026

We’re in the third straight week of football at Neyland Stadium! 🍊

And this Saturday, we’re celebrating 100 years of Gen. Neyland as Tennessee Football takes on Auburn! 🔶🔥

It’s a special day at Neyland Stadium as the Vols honor the legacy of the man who helped shape Tennessee football. 🏈🍊

Here’s EVERYTHING you need to know before kickoff ⬇️
🏟️ Game Day Activities 🎉
🚪 Gate Reminders & Stadium Upgrades ✨
🎟️ Digital Tickets & Parking Passes 🅿️
🚌 Parking & Shuttles
🚔 Safety Measures
🚫 Prohibited Items

⏰ Kickoff: 3:30 p.m. ET
🚪 Gates Open: 12:30 p.m.
📍 Neyland Stadium
🏈 Tennessee vs. Auburn

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will welcome fans to campus Saturday, Oct. 3, for the football game against Auburn University.

10/01/2026

Congratulations to Cpl. Doty, who was promoted to the rank of Sergeant this morning by Chief Patterson during a promotion ceremony.

Congratulations on your hard work Sgt. Doty and keep up the good work.