Appellate Court Opinions

State of Tennessee v. Oscar Romero

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 15 May 2026 20:33:35 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Oscar Romero

Case Number

M2025-00777-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert H. Montgomery, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge Robert T. Bateman

Date Filed

Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendant, Oscar Romero, was convicted by a Montgomery County jury of rape, a Class B felony. See T.C.A. § 39-13-503 (2018) (subsequently amended). On appeal, he asserts that the proof is insufficient to sustain his conviction, that the trial court erred by excluding rebuttal evidence to impeach the victim, and that the court erred in its application of an enhancement factor during sentencing. We affirm the judgment of the trial court.

In Estate of Esther Sandra McClanahan

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Wed, 13 May 2026 14:38:22 +0000

In Estate of Esther Sandra McClanahan

Case Number

M2026-00626-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Clerk and Master Jakob Schwendimann

Date Filed

Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00

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This is an interlocutory appeal, filed pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 10B, from a clerk and master’s denial of a motion to recuse. Finding that the appeal of the clerk and master’s ruling should have gone to the Chancellor, we dismiss the appeal.

Paul Blaylock MD JD v. University of Tennessee Martin

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Fri, 15 May 2026 15:18:23 +0000

Paul Blaylock MD JD v. University of Tennessee Martin

Case Number

W2025-00212-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Carma Dennis McGee

Originating Judge

Judge Jeff Parham

Date Filed

Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00

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The plaintiff filed this lawsuit in circuit court against the University of Tennessee (at Martin), alleging twelve separate counts relating to the University’s handling of a charitable gift made by the plaintiff. The claims ranged from breach of contract to defamation to infliction of emotional distress, among others.The circuit court granted the University’s motion to dismiss for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, concluding that the Tennessee Claims Commission has exclusive jurisdiction over suits against the Statefor the torts alleged by the plaintiff and any breach of contract claim. The plaintiff appeals. We affirm.

Tom Slagle et al. v. Church of the First Born of Tennessee et al.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 15 May 2026 20:24:45 +0000

Tom Slagle et al. v. Church of the First Born of Tennessee et al.

Case Number

M2024-01389-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Chancellor Ben Dean

Date Filed

Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00

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In protracted litigation concerning a dispute over church property, a new chancellor took office several years after a jury verdict, post-trial motions, and an order granting partial summary judgment. The new chancellor set aside the jury verdict and the summary judgment order. We have determined that, under the unique circumstances of this case, the trial court erred in setting aside the jury verdict and in setting aside the order granting partial summary judgment.Therefore, we reverse and remand.

SAP America, Inc. v. David Gerregano, Commissioner of Revenue, State of Tennessee

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 15 May 2026 20:27:10 +0000

SAP America, Inc. v. David Gerregano, Commissioner of Revenue, State of Tennessee

Case Number

M2024-01399-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Chancellor Anne C. Martin

Date Filed

Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00

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The Tennessee Department of Revenue issued a business tax assessment against a companybased on the company’s gross receipts from sales of computer software, cloud hosting, and cloud-based services.The company challenged the assessment by filing a complaint in the chancery court. Both parties filed motions for summary judgment. The court granted summaryjudgmentto the company, finding that the sales of computer software and cloud hosting were not subject to business tax. The court upheld the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s assessment of business tax against the company’s sales of cloud-based services. Lastly, the courtfound that the company was the prevailing party and awarded the company attorney’s fees pursuant to Tenn. Code Ann. § 67-1-1803(d). The Tennessee Department of Revenue appealed. Discerning that the court erred in its determination that the company’s cloud hosting sales were not subject to business tax, we reverse that portion of the court’s decision. Because this affects the attorney’s fees award, we vacate the award of attorney’s fees and remand for further proceedings. We affirm the trial court in all other respects.

Martin B. Montemayor v. State of Tennessee

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Fri, 15 May 2026 20:29:10 +0000

Martin B. Montemayor v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

M2025-00058-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Timothy L. Easter

Originating Judge

Judge James A. Tuner

Date Filed

Wed, 05/13/2026 - 12:00

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Petitioner, Martin B.Montemayor, pled guilty to second-degree murderand received a life imprisonment sentence without the possibility of parole. Petitioner subsequently sought post-conviction relief on the basis of ineffective assistance of counsel. The post-conviction court in Rutherford County denied relief after a hearing, and Petitioner appealed to this Court. He argues that the post-conviction court erred in dismissing his petition because (1) his guilty plea was not knowing and voluntary; (2)he received ineffective assistance of counsel; and (3) he was incorrectly sentenced as a repeat violent offender. Upon review of the entire record, the briefs of the parties, and the applicable law, we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

Cinda Haddon v. Ladarius Vanlier et al.

ashley.boggess@tncourts.gov — Tue, 12 May 2026 18:01:43 +0000

Cinda Haddon v. Ladarius Vanlier et al.

Case Number

M2023-01151-SC-R11-CV

Authoring Judge

Justice Mary L. Wagner

Originating Judge

Judge Thomas W. Brothers

Date Filed

Tue, 05/12/2026 - 12:00

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In this case, we determine whether prejudgment interest may be awarded in an action brought against a tortfeasor and defended by an uninsured motorist carrier under Tennessee’s Uninsured Motorist Act. Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 56-7-1201–1206 (2016 & Supp. 2025). The trial court determined that Plaintiff Cinda Haddon could not recover prejudgment interest because her claim was for personal injury. The Court of Appeals reversed, finding that Ms. Haddon brought a contract action. Haddon v. Vanlier, No. M2023-01151-COA-R3-CV, 2024 WL 4590434, at *2–3 (Tenn. Ct. App. Oct. 28, 2024), perm. app. granted, (Tenn. March 17, 2025). Accordingly, the Court of Appeals remanded this matter to the trial court for a determination of prejudgment interest. Id. at *5. Upon review, we find that this is a personal injury action. Because prejudgment interest is not available in a personal injury action, we reverse the Court of Appeals and reinstate the judgment of the trial court denying Ms. Haddon prejudgment interest.

In Re Conservatorship of Betty A. Winston

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Tue, 12 May 2026 19:01:51 +0000

In Re Conservatorship of Betty A. Winston

Case Number

W2025-00623-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Presiding Judge J. Steven Stafford

Originating Judge

Senior Judge Roy B. Morgan, Jr.

Date Filed

Mon, 05/11/2026 - 12:00

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Appellant was named conservator over her mother in 2019 over her sibling’s objection and posted a $25,000.00 surety bond in connection with the conservatorship. After several years in which accountings were approved by the trial court, a new judge was designated to preside over the case. The new trial judge refused to approve several of the expenses in the later accountings, finding that they were either not for the benefit of the ward or constituted payment to the conservator without prior court approval. As a result, the trial court ruled that the conservator was required to reimburse over $30,000.00 in expenses to the conservatorship account. Appellant argues that the trial court erred in finding that these expenses were unauthorized and directing reimbursement, as well as in granting a judgment to the conservator’s surety for the amount it paid to reimburse the conservatorship account pursuant to the surety bond. Discerning no reversible error, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Bruce Bowen

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:57:12 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Bruce Bowen

Case Number

M2026-00620-CCA-R8-CO

Dispositive Order

Authoring Judge

Presiding Judge Robert W. Wedemeyer; Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.; Judge Timothy L. Easter

Date Filed

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 12:00

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This matter is before the Court upon motion of the Defendant, Bruce Bowen, for review of the trial court’s order denying his motion to reduce his pretrial bond. See Tenn. R. App. P. 8; Tenn. Code. Ann. § 40-11-144. The State opposes. For the reasons discussed below, the Defendant’s motion is denied.

State of Tennessee v. Tony Banks and Tyrone Banks

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Mon, 11 May 2026 15:26:19 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Tony Banks and Tyrone Banks

Case Number

W2025-00765-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Kyle A. Hixson

Originating Judge

Judge James Jones, Jr.

Date Filed

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendants, Tony Banks and Tyrone Banks, were both convicted of misdemeanor assault following a bench trial, and they each received sentences of ten months. On appeal, the Defendants argue that the evidence was insufficient to support their convictions and that the trial courterred by allowing a State’s witness to testify remotely through the use of a videoconferencing platform. After our review of the record and the applicable case law, we affirm the judgments of the trial court.

State of Tennessee v. Joseph Trent McGregor

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Mon, 11 May 2026 16:56:57 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Joseph Trent McGregor

Case Number

W2025-00844-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge John W. Campbell

Originating Judge

Judge Bruce Irwin Griffey

Date Filed

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendant, Joseph Trent McGregor, was convicted by a Carroll County Circuit Court
jury of evading arrest, a Class E felony; and resisting arrest, a Class B misdemeanor; and
was sentenced by the trial court as a Range II offender to an effective term of four years in
the Tennessee Department of Correction. The Defendant raises a single issue in this
appeal: whether the trial court erred in refusing the Defendant’s request for special jury
instructions on pretextual stops, unlawful detentions, and attempted unlawful arrests. We
conclude that the Defendant has waived our consideration of the issue based on the
inadequacy of his brief, which fails to provide any meaningful argument or appropriate
references to the record. Accordingly, we affirm the judgments of the trial court.

JOHN WILLIAM OWENS ET.AL v. MEREDITH ELIZABETH OWENS

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Tue, 12 May 2026 12:40:06 +0000

JOHN WILLIAM OWENS ET.AL v. MEREDITH ELIZABETH OWENS

Case Number

E2025-00483-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Thomas R. Frierson, II

Originating Judge

Chancellor J. Michael Sharp

Date Filed

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 12:00

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In this matter involving alleged violations of federal and state wiretapping statutes,
evidence was presented to a jury during a two-day trial. Following the conclusion of the
trial, the jury deliberated and ultimately found in favor of the defendant. The trial court
entered judgment for the defendant, and the plaintiffs filed a motion for judgment
notwithstanding the verdict or, alternatively, for a new trial. The trial court denied the
motion, and the plaintiffs timely appealed. Discerning no reversible error, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Evelyn D. Kennedy and Christopher L. Kennedy

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Tue, 12 May 2026 12:23:58 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Evelyn D. Kennedy and Christopher L. Kennedy

Case Number

E2024-01903-CCA-R3-CD / E2024-01910-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert H. Montgomery

Originating Judge

Judge Jeffery Hill Wicks

Date Filed

Fri, 05/08/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendants, EvelynD.Kennedy1and Christoper L. Kennedy, bring this consolidated appeal from their convictions for firstdegree felony murder and aggravated neglect of an elderly or vulnerable adultresulting in serious bodily injury,a Class B felony. SeeT.C.A. §§39-13-202(a)(2)(2018) (subsequently amended) (felony murder),39-15-508 (2025) (aggravated neglect of an elderly or vulnerable adult resulting in serious bodily injury).
The trial court sentenced both Defendants toconcurrent terms oflife for their felony murder convictions and twelve years for their aggravated neglect convictions. On appeal, the Defendants contend that: (1) their convictions violate the ex post factoprotections of the State and federal constitutions and (2) the trial court abused its discretion in admitting graphic autopsy photographs. We affirm the judgments of the trial court.

State of Tennessee v. Ethan Allen Compton

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 14:57:53 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Ethan Allen Compton

Case Number

M2025-00217-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Matthew J. Wilson

Originating Judge

Judge Jessica Parrish

Date Filed

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 12:00

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A Maury County jury convicted Defendant, Ethan Allen Compton, of possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and unlawfully carrying or possessing a weapon. The trial court imposed an effective sentence of eleven months and twenty-nine days to be served on probation. On appeal, Defendant contends that Tennessee Code Annotated section 39-17-1307(f)(1)(A), which prohibits a person who has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence from possessing a firearm, violates the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution on its face. Upon review, we conclude that Code section 39-17-1307(f)(1)(A) is constitutional on its face. Accordingly, we affirm the judgments of the trial court.

State of Tennessee v. Jay Burroughs Chandler

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 18:57:31 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Jay Burroughs Chandler

Case Number

M2025-00381-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Camille R. McMullen

Originating Judge

Judge Dee David Gay

Date Filed

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendant in this case, Jay Burroughs Chandler, was charged with fifty-four counts of violating Tennessee Code Annotated section 39-17-1003 by possessing material depicting a minor child engaged in sexual activity. Prior to trial, the Defendant filed two motions to suppress, both of which the trial court denied. After a bench trial, the Defendant was convicted as charged. The trial court subsequently imposed an effective sentence of one hundred years in prison. In this direct appeal, the Defendant contends that the trial court erred in denying both of his motions to suppress and in sentencing him. We affirm the Defendant’s convictions. We vacate the Defendant’s sentence and remand this matter for a new sentencing hearing.

State of Tennessee v. Jay Burroughs Chandler (Concurring)

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 19:05:18 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Jay Burroughs Chandler (Concurring)

Case Number

M2025-00381-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Matthew J. Wilson

Originating Judge

Judge Dee David Gay

Date Filed

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 12:00

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I concur in the result reached by the majority. I write separately, however, because I disagree with the majority’s analysis on three key points.

Deirdre Wilson v. Regions Bank

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 20:38:01 +0000

Deirdre Wilson v. Regions Bank

Case Number

M2026-00552-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge William E. Phillips, II

Originating Judge

Judge Robin Kimbrough Hayes

Date Filed

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 12:00

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Plaintiff/Appellant has filed an accelerated interlocutory appeal as of right under Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 10B, Section 2, seeking review of the Davidson County General Sessions Court’s order denying Appellant’s motion to recuse the General Sessions judge in a civil warrant proceeding against Defendant/Appellee. We conclude this Court lacks jurisdiction to entertain a Rule 10B appeal from the General Sessions Court of Davidson County when it is not exercising concurrent jurisdiction with a court of record. Accordingly, this appeal is transferred to the Circuit Court of Davidson County for disposition.

Demetrice Livingston v. State of Tennessee

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Fri, 08 May 2026 21:03:15 +0000

Demetrice Livingston v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

W2025-00807-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Camille R. McMullen

Originating Judge

Judge Mark L. Hayes

Date Filed

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 12:00

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The Petitioner, Demetrice Livingston, appeals the denial of his petition for postconviction
relief from his second degree murder conviction. On appeal, the
Petitioner argues that the post-conviction court erred in denying his petition after
concluding that trial counsel provided effective assistance of counsel. After review,
we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

Margaret Daniel et al. v. Rick's Barbeque, Inc. et al.

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:24:05 +0000

Margaret Daniel et al. v. Rick's Barbeque, Inc. et al.

Case Number

M2025-01009-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Maroney

Originating Judge

Judge Christopher V. Sockwell

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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This appeal requires us to determine whether the trial court erred in granting summary judgment to the Appellees, finding that Appellant’s own inattention was the cause of her accident and that she was more than 50% at fault for her injuries. Discerning no error, we affirm.

Jason Henderson, Jr. v. State of Tennessee

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 17:06:27 +0000

Jason Henderson, Jr. v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

W2025-001492-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge John W. Campbell

Originating Judge

Judge Joseph T. Howell

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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The Petitioner, Jason Henderson, Jr., appeals the Madison County Circuit Court’s denial of his petition for post-conviction relief,claimingthat he received the ineffective assistance of trial counsel. Based upon our review, we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

James Whitfield Livingston v. Lauren Elizabeth Logue

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Wed, 06 May 2026 17:05:27 +0000

James Whitfield Livingston v. Lauren Elizabeth Logue

Case Number

M2024-00878-COA-R3-JV

Authoring Judge

Judge W. Neal McBrayer

Originating Judge

Judge Sheila Calloway

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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After an extended trial, the court adopted a permanent parenting plan for the child of unwed parents and determined the father’s child support obligation. Mother takes issue with both decisions. Discerning no abuse of discretion, we affirm.

In Re Kylee T.

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 17:08:40 +0000

In Re Kylee T.

Case Number

W2025-01055-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Thomas R. Frierson, II

Originating Judge

Chancellor James R. Newsom

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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Inthis case involving termination of the mother’s parental rights to her child, the Shelby County Chancery Court (“trial court”) determined that one statutory ground for termination had been proven by clear and convincing evidence. The trial court further determined that clear and convincing evidence demonstrated that termination of the mother’s parental rights was in the child’s best interest. The mother has appealed. Discerning no reversible error, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Sharod Demon Greer

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 16:54:12 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Sharod Demon Greer

Case Number

W2025-00448-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Kyle A. Hixson

Originating Judge

Judge Donald H. Allen

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendant, Sharod Demon Greer, was convicted by a jury of aggravated sexual battery and assault by offensive touching, for which the trial court imposed an effective sentence of twelve years’ imprisonment. On appeal, the Defendant contends that (1) the evidence was insufficient to support his aggravated sexual battery conviction because the State failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that any touching of the victim was sexually motivated and (2) the trial court failed to consider the purposes and principles of sentencing when it imposed the maximum in-range sentence for aggravated sexual battery because it did not explain why the sentence was more justly deserved than a lesser sentence. After review, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Gerry Stitts

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 17:01:34 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Gerry Stitts

Case Number

W2025-00731-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge James Jones, Jr.

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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Defendant, Gerry Stitts, appeals from his jury convictions for rape of a child and aggravated sexual battery, for which he is serving an effective sentence of thirty-five years. On appeal, he argues that the evidence is insufficient to support his convictions and that the trial court erred by denying his motion for new trial based upon newly discovered evidence. After a thorough review of the record and applicable law, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Ronald David Ballard

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Thu, 07 May 2026 17:04:18 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Ronald David Ballard

Case Number

W2025-01056-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge John W. Campbell

Originating Judge

Judge Joseph T. Howell

Date Filed

Wed, 05/06/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendant, Ronald David Ballard, was convicted in the Henderson County Circuit Court of fifteencounts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. After a sentencing hearing, the trial court mergedall counts andsentenced himas a Range III, persistent offender to twenty-eight years in confinementfor count one. On appeal, the Defendant contends that the evidence is insufficient to support the convictions because the State failed to showhe constructively possessed the firearm.Based upon the oral arguments, the record, and the parties’ briefs, we affirm the Defendant’s convictionsbut remand the case to the trial court for sentencing on counts two through fifteenand for correction of the judgments pursuant to State v. Berry, 503 S.W.3d 360, 364 (Tenn. 2015).

Earnest Costosteno Woodley v. James M. Holloway, Warden

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Mon, 04 May 2026 16:19:23 +0000

Earnest Costosteno Woodley v. James M. Holloway, Warden

Case Number

M2025-01383-CCA-R3-HC

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Joseph P. Binkley, Jr.

Date Filed

Mon, 05/04/2026 - 12:00

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In 2016, a Davidson County jury convicted the Petitioner, Earnest Costosteno Woodley, of four counts of attempted first degree premeditated murder. The trial court sentenced him as a repeat violent offender to four concurrent terms of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Nine years later, the Petitioner applied for a writ of habeas corpus, alleging that his criminal history did not qualify him as a repeat violent offender. The habeas corpus court summarily dismissed the application, concluding that the petition failed to state a cognizable claim for relief. The Petitioner appealed. Upon our review, we respectfully affirm the judgment of the habeas corpus court.

State of Tennessee v. William Lloyd Smith, III

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Mon, 04 May 2026 19:16:02 +0000

State of Tennessee v. William Lloyd Smith, III

Case Number

M2025-01106-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Jill Bartee Ayers

Originating Judge

Judge Larry J. Wallace

Date Filed

Mon, 05/04/2026 - 12:00

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Defendant, William Lloyd Smith, III, pled guilty to one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell and received an agreed sentence of eight years as a Range I offender, to be served on probation. Following a hearing on a warrant for violation of his probation, the trial court revoked Defendant’s probation and ordered him to serve the balance of his original sentence incarcerated. Defendant appeals, arguing that the trial court erred in revoking probation rather than allowing him furlough to a residential treatment facility previously approved by his probation officer. Following a review of the entire record, the briefs of the parties, and the applicable law, we affirm the judgment of the trial court.

State of Tennessee v. Christopher Michael Fiedler

britney.roberson@tncourts.gov — Tue, 05 May 2026 20:22:42 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Christopher Michael Fiedler

Case Number

W2025-00621-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Originating Judge

Judge Bruce Irwin Griffey

Date Filed

Mon, 05/04/2026 - 12:00

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The Defendant, Christopher Michael Fiedler, appeals his Henry County Circuit Court conviction of driving ona suspended license, for which he received a sentence of 180 days’ incarceration. On appeal, the Defendant argues that he is entitled to a new trial because the trial court erred by finding that heknowingly and voluntarily waived his right to the assistance of counsel. He also argues that he is entitled to a new sentencing hearing because the trial court failed to consider the purposes and principles of sentencing or to make the requisite findingspursuant to State v. Hooper, 29 S.W.3d 1, 13 (Tenn. 2000),insupportofits determination that confinement was particularly suited to provide an effective deterrence to others likely to commit similar offenses. The State responds that the Defendant knowingly and voluntarily waived his right to counsel and that the trial court did not abuse its discretion in imposing a within range sentence. Following our review, we reverse the Defendant’s conviction and remand for a new trial.

State of Tennessee v. Miracle A'sha Bailey and Robert Jaylen Holland

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:20:14 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Miracle A'sha Bailey and Robert Jaylen Holland

Case Number

M2024-01144-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge William R. Goodman, III

Date Filed

Fri, 05/01/2026 - 12:00

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In January 2023, the Montgomery County Grand Jury issued a four-count indictment charging Miracle A’sha Bailey (“Defendant Bailey”) and Robert Jaylen Holland (“Defendant Holland”) with first degree premeditated murder (Count 1), evading arrest in an automobile causing a risk of death or serious bodily injury (Count 2), and theft of property valued at more than $10,000 (Count 3). Defendant Holland was also charged with evading arrest (Count 4). Following a joint trial, the jury convicted Defendant Bailey of first degree premeditated murder and the lesser-included offenses of evading arrest in an automobile in Count 2 and joyriding in Count 3, for which the trial court imposed an effective life sentence. The jury convicted Defendant Holland of first degree premeditated murder, evading arrest in an automobile causing a risk of death or serious bodily injury, the lesser-included offense of joyriding in Count 3, and evading arrest, for which the trial court imposed an effective life sentence.

On appeal, Defendant Bailey contends that (1) the trial court erred by admitting a detective’s body camera recording of a doorbell camera video; (2) the chain of custody for her cell phone and the victim’s cell phone was insufficiently established; (3) the trial court erred by admitting autopsy photographs; (4) the trial court erred by finding that the automobile’s owner was not a material witness; (5) the trial court erred by failing to instruct the jury on identity; and (6) the trial court erred by instructing the jury on flight. For his part, Defendant Holland contends that (1) the evidence was insufficient to support his conviction for first degree premeditated murder; (2) the trial court erred by failing to instruct the jury on identity and by issuing an “inaccurate” instruction on flight; (3) his right to confront witnesses was violated when the trial court allowed an expert witness to testify who did not perform the gunshot residue (“GSR”) testing; and (4) the trial court erred by admitting autopsy photographs. After a thorough review of the evidence and applicable case law, we affirm. We also determine that there is a clerical error in Defendant Holland’s judgment form in Count 2 and remand for entry of a corrected judgment.

Joshua F. Linebarger v. State of Tennessee

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:50:42 +0000

Joshua F. Linebarger v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

E2025-00662-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge G. Scott Green

Date Filed

Fri, 05/01/2026 - 12:00

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The Petitioner, Joshua Linebarger, appeals the summary dismissal of his petition for post-conviction relief as untimely. After pleading guilty in the Knox County Criminal Court to theft, reckless burning, and assault and receiving an effective ten-year sentence, the Petitioner filed a post-conviction petition outside the one-year statute of limitations. The post-conviction court dismissed the petition, concluding that it was untimely on its face and that principles of due process did not toll the limitations period. Upon our review, we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

State of Tennessee v. Johnny Robert McBee

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:52:59 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Johnny Robert McBee

Case Number

E2025-00191-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Date Filed

Fri, 05/01/2026 - 12:00

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A Knox County jury convicted the Defendant, Johnny Robert McBee, of first degree premeditated murder and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The trial court sentenced the Defendant to an effective term of life imprisonment. On appeal, the Defendant raises the following issues: (1) whether the evidence is legally sufficient to support his convictions; and (2) whether the trial court erred in denying his oral motion to bifurcate the unlawful possession charge from the first degree murder charge. Upon our review, we respectfully affirm the judgments of the trial court.

Waynard Q. Winbush v. State of Tennessee

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Wed, 06 May 2026 14:03:54 +0000

Waynard Q. Winbush v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

E2025-01232-CCA-R3-HC

Authoring Judge

Judge Jill Bartee Ayers

Originating Judge

Judge G. Scott Green

Date Filed

Fri, 05/01/2026 - 12:00

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Petitioner, Waynard Q. Winbush, appeals the dismissalof his pro se petition for writ of habeas corpus. After a thorough review of the record and applicable authorities, we affirm the judgment of the habeas corpus court.

State of Tennessee v. Devon D. Holloway

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Wed, 06 May 2026 13:47:46 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Devon D. Holloway

Case Number

E2025-01043-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Hector Sanchez

Date Filed

Fri, 05/01/2026 - 12:00

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A Knox County jury convicted the Defendant, Devon D. Holloway, of theft of property, and the trial court sentenced him to a term of twelve years’incarceration. On appeal, the Defendant raises twoissues: (1) whether the evidence was legally sufficient to sustain his conviction for theft; and (2) whether the trial court erred by instructing the jury on flight.Upon our review, we respectfully affirm the judgment of the trial court.

Cynthia Torres v. YMCA Foundation of Middle Tennessee

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:50:06 +0000

Cynthia Torres v. YMCA Foundation of Middle Tennessee

Case Number

M2024-00720-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge W. Neal McBrayer

Originating Judge

Judge Deanna Bell Johnson

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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The appeal concerns the scope and enforceability of a liability waiver. The trial court determined the liability waiver applied to the plaintiff’s claims of personal injury and granted the defendant summary judgment. We agree and affirm

Eddrick Booker v. Tennessee Board of Parole

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:19:52 +0000

Eddrick Booker v. Tennessee Board of Parole

Case Number

M2025-01353-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Originating Judge

Judge Russell T. Perkins

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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This appeal arises from the dismissal of a defective petition for writ of certiorari for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. The trial court granted the Appellee’s motion to dismiss after Appellant failed to verify and notarize the petition under the requirements set forth in Tennessee Code Annotated section 27-8-106. Discerning no error, we affirm.

State of Tennessee v. Barry J. Zbleski, Jr.

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:16:53 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Barry J. Zbleski, Jr.

Case Number

M2025-00645-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Suzanne Lockert-Mash

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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A Dickson County jury convicted the Defendant, Barry J. Zbleski, Jr., of second degree murder by the unlawful distribution of fentanyl or carfentanil and of the knowing sale and distribution of fentanyl resulting in death or bodily injury. The trial court imposed an effective sentence of twenty years’ imprisonment. On appeal, the Defendant raises two issues: (1) whether the evidence is legally sufficient to support his conviction for second degree murder; and (2) whether the trial court violated his Sixth Amendment right to confront witnesses by admitting testimony from a substitute medical examiner. Upon our review, we respectfully affirm the judgments of the trial court.

Camille Webb Steward v. Orson Eric Steward

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:27:30 +0000

Camille Webb Steward v. Orson Eric Steward

Case Number

M2026-00546-COA-T10B-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Steven W. Maroney

Originating Judge

Judge Deana C. Hood

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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This accelerated interlocutory appeal requires us to determine whether the trial court erred in denying Appellant’s motion for recusal, which was brought pursuant to Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 10B § 2.02. Because Appellant’s petition fails to comply with the requirements of Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 10B§ 1.01, the appeal is dismissed.

In Re Ellie C.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:27:31 +0000

In Re Ellie C.

Case Number

W2025-01072-COA-R3-JV

Authoring Judge

Presiding Judge John W. McClarty

Originating Judge

Judge Tarik B. Sugarmon

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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This appeal arises from the trial court’s modification of a residential schedule in which the
trial court awarded the parents equal co-parenting time. We now affirm.

In Re Gracelyn H.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:31:14 +0000

In Re Gracelyn H.

Case Number

W2025-00668-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Originating Judge

Chancellor Steven W. Maroney

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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This is a termination of parental rights appeal. The trial court found clear and convincing
evidence to terminate father’s parental rights to the minor child on three statutory
grounds: abandonment by failure to support, father’s confinement as the result of a criminal
sentence of ten or more years when the child was under eight years old, and father’s failure
to manifest an ability and willingness to personally assume legal and physical custody of
the child. The trial court further concluded that termination was in the child’s best interest.
We vacate the trial court’s finding as to father’s failure to manifest an ability and
willingness to assume custody of the child. We affirm the judgment of the trial court in all
other respects.

ROSE CHRISTIAN V. JEFFERSON CITY, ET AL.

Barbara.Doud@tncourts.gov — Fri, 01 May 2026 13:24:25 +0000

ROSE CHRISTIAN V. JEFFERSON CITY, ET AL.

Case Number

E2025-00926-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge John W. McClarty

Originating Judge

Chancellor James H. Ripley

Date Filed

Thu, 04/30/2026 - 12:00

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This appeal arises from a declaratory judgment action concerning the rezoning of property
by the Jefferson City Council. The trial court affirmed the rezoning. We now affirm the
ruling of the trial court.

Keith King v. Dayco Incorporated

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:02:47 +0000

Keith King v. Dayco Incorporated

Case Number

W2025-00262-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Presiding Judge J. Steven Stafford

Originating Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Date Filed

Wed, 04/29/2026 - 12:00

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Worker employed by a temporary staffing agency was assigned to one of the agency’s clients and then injured while working. In suing the client for negligence, the worker relied on the contract between agency and client that provided that such assignees would not be considered employees of the client. The trial court granted summary judgment for the client, finding that the worker was a co-employee of the client and thus subject to the exclusive remedy provision of the Tennessee Workers’ Compensation Law. Because the worker admitted all of the facts establishing his status as an employee of the client by failing to dispute them, we affirm.

Joshua Matthew Brown v. Kimberly Higginbotham Brown

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:31:38 +0000

Joshua Matthew Brown v. Kimberly Higginbotham Brown

Case Number

M2024-01179-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Carma Dennis McGee

Originating Judge

Judge Joe Thompson

Date Filed

Wed, 04/29/2026 - 12:00

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This is an appeal from a final decree of divorce. The parties were married over twenty years and had three children. The mother was a stay-at-home parent while Father was employed. At trial, they stipulated to separate parenting schedules for their two teenagers but could not agree on a parenting schedule for their youngest daughter, a former foster child they had adopted years earlier. The trial court designated the father primary residential parent of the youngest daughter and adopted a parenting schedule with equal parenting time on an alternating weekly basis. The trial court denied the mother’s request for alimony in futuro and awarded her transitional alimony for a period of five months. The trial court ordered the father to pay $6,000 of the mother’s attorney fees, but each party was deemed responsible for the remainder of his or her own attorney fees. The mother appeals. We reverse in part, vacate in part, and remand for further proceedings.

In Re Laila T.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 13:21:27 +0000

In Re Laila T.

Case Number

W2025-01306-COA-R3-JV

Authoring Judge

Chief Judge Frank G. Clement, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge Tarik B. Sugarmon

Date Filed

Wed, 04/29/2026 - 12:00

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The mother appeals the juvenile court’s decision to impose sanctions against her for failing
to produce documents in response to the father’s repeated discovery requests. She also
challenges the amount of the award of attorney’s fees. We affirm.

Mayor Lee Harris et al. v. Governor Bill Lee et al.

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:18:40 +0000

Mayor Lee Harris et al. v. Governor Bill Lee et al.

Case Number

M2025-01915-COA-R9-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Andy D. Bennett

Originating Judge

Chancellor Patricia Head Moskal

Date Filed

Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:00

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The plaintiffs sued various state officials to enjoin the deployment of Tennessee National Guard troops in support of the President’s Memphis Safe Task Force. The trial court granted a temporary injunction, and the state defendants filed a Tenn. R. App. P. 9 motion seeking permission to appeal, which the Court of Appeals granted. Finding that the plaintiffs lack standing, we reverse the issuance of the injunction.

State of Tennessee v. Shoshanna Cabanting

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:40:26 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Shoshanna Cabanting

Case Number

E2025-00303-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Alex E. Pearson

Date Filed

Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:00

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A Hancock County jury convicted the Defendant, Shoshanna Cabanting, of vandalism as a Class A misdemeanor. The trial court imposed a sentence of eleven months and twenty-nine days, with thirty days to be served in confinement and the remainder suspended to probation. In a prior appeal, this court reversed and remanded the case for a limited resentencing hearing. On remand, the trial court made additional findings and reimposed the same sentence. The Defendant again challenges the split-confinement portion of her sentence and requests that this court impose full probation instead. Upon our review, we respectfully affirm the judgment of the trial court.

Carrington Owens v. State of Tennessee

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:41:47 +0000

Carrington Owens v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

M2024-01450-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Robert L. Holloway, Jr.

Originating Judge

Judge William R. Goodman, III

Date Filed

Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:00

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Carrington Owens, Petitioner, appeals from the denial of post-conviction relief from Petitioner’s convictions for four counts of rape of a child, twenty-three counts of especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, and twelve counts of aggravated sexual battery of a child less than thirteen years of age and his effective thirty-seven-year sentence. On appeal, Petitioner contends that the post-conviction court erred by denying relief on his ineffective assistance of counsel claims. Discerning no error, we affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

Essie James, et al. v. Petra Finance, LLC, et al.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:58:11 +0000

Essie James, et al. v. Petra Finance, LLC, et al.

Case Number

W2024-00795-COA-R3-CV

Authoring Judge

Judge Carma Dennis McGee

Originating Judge

Chancellor Melanie Taylor Jefferson

Date Filed

Tue, 04/28/2026 - 12:00

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This case involves a petition for rescission of a mortgage loan based on fraud in the
inducement. The trial court granted summary judgment to the defendants on two separate
grounds. The first basis for the trial court’s grant of summary judgment was that the
plaintiff sought rescission of the loan transaction but admitted that he could not repay the
amount he received in the transaction and also admitted that he could not restore the status
quo if the note and deed of trust were rescinded. Because the plaintiff was unable to place
the parties in their prior status, the trial court found that he was not entitled to rescission.
Next, the trial court found that the plaintiff failed to identify any misrepresentation made
by the original lender and only alleged misrepresentation by the mortgage broker, who was
not a party to this lawsuit. The trial court found that the plaintiff failed to present any
evidence or legal theory showing that the mortgage broker was acting as an agent of the
original lender, so his statements were not attributable to the defendants. The plaintiff
appeals. We affirm.

In Re James K.

Angie.Dempsey@tncourts.gov — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:18:47 +0000

In Re James K.

Case Number

W2025-01189-COA-R3-PT

Authoring Judge

Judge Valerie L. Smith

Originating Judge

Chancellor Steven W. Maroney

Date Filed

Mon, 04/27/2026 - 12:00

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In this termination of parental rights case, Appellant/Mother appeals the trial court’s termination of her parental rights to the minor child on the ground of persistent conditions, Tenn. Code Ann. § 36-1-113(g)(3). Because there is clear and convincing evidence to support this ground and the trial court’s determination that termination of Appellant’s parental rights is in the child’s best interests, we affirm.

Jeffery D. Strong v. State of Tennessee

karla.drumm@tncourts.gov — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:08:38 +0000

Jeffery D. Strong v. State of Tennessee

Case Number

M2025-00638-CCA-R3-PC

Authoring Judge

Judge Tom Greenholtz

Originating Judge

Judge Brody N. Kane

Date Filed

Mon, 04/27/2026 - 12:00

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A Macon County jury convicted the Petitioner, Jeffery D. Strong, of selling dihydrocodeinone, a Schedule III controlled substance. The Petitioner later filed a petition for post-conviction relief, alleging that trial counsel provided ineffective assistance by (1) failing to object to the admission of the audio recording of the drug transaction; and (2) failing to raise the recording’s admission as an error in the motion for a new trial. The post-conviction court denied relief, and the Petitioner now appeals. In addition to his ineffective assistance claim, the Petitioner also contends on appeal that the post-conviction court erred by failing to resolve the question of pretrial jail credits owed to him. Upon our review, we respectfully affirm the judgment of the post-conviction court.

State of Tennessee v. Jay Junior Heifner

terri.lomax@tncourts.gov — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:26:29 +0000

State of Tennessee v. Jay Junior Heifner

Case Number

E2024-01517-CCA-R3-CD

Authoring Judge

Judge Matthew J. Wilson

Originating Judge

Judge Steven W. Sword

Date Filed

Mon, 04/27/2026 - 12:00

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Defendant, Jay Junior Heifner, appeals the Knox County Criminal Court’s revocation of the three-year term of probation imposed for his 2021 guilty-pleaded conviction of theft, arguing that the trial court was without jurisdiction to revoke his probation because the violation warrant was void and that the trial court erred by ordering that he serve the balance of his sentence in confinement. We conclude that because the affidavit in support of the violation warrant failed to comply with the statutory and rule-based requirements, the affidavit was void, the violation warrant was void, and the ensuing revocation proceeding was void. Accordingly, the judgment of the trial court is reversed, and the case is remanded to the trial court to determine whether, in the absence of a validly issued probation violation warrant, Defendant’s term of probation has expired.