MURFREESBORO, TN – A former Tennessee police chief, already embroiled in controversy, now faces additional legal woes after being arrested on charges of kidnapping, piling onto prior allegations of stalking.
Burrel “Chip” Davis, dismissed from his role as La Vergne Police Chief in early 2023 following a major sexual misconduct scandal within his department, encountered new legal troubles on January 29. An affidavit revealed that Davis confronted his estranged wife at her home while her daughters were present, accusing her of a personal matter. During the incident, he allegedly seized all family members’ phones, effectively isolating them from outside contact.
As tensions heightened, Davis reportedly uncovered a firearm within the residence and threatened self-harm, adding another layer to the already distressing situation.
Authorities have not disclosed the timeline of events leading to the police notification, but Davis was apprehended the same evening. His charges include four counts of felony, especially aggravated kidnapping, felony aggravated assault, as well as several misdemeanor offenses related to domestic assault and interference with emergency calls. Davis was held on a $145,000 bond, with a court appearance slated for March 5.
This incident follows a December 2024 arrest where Davis faced allegations of aggravated stalking and violating a protection order, charges resulting from an unapproved entry into an apartment complex. Although details surrounding the identity of the individual involved in that case remain unspecified, he was released on a $3,000 bond.
Davis’s tenure as La Vergne Police Chief was marred by a sprawling sexual misconduct investigation involving eight department members. The probe resulted in the termination of five officers, with three others facing suspension.
Confidential communications found on Davis’s phone pointed to his alleged role in hampering the investigation, suggesting he may have tacitly approved or even encouraged actions contrary to the law. Consequently, the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission moved to revoke his certification in December 2024.
The escalating legal challenges Davies faces highlight the fraught dynamics between his former law enforcement role and his current standing in the judicial system, sparking community and professional scrutiny.