Blount County, Tennessee – A man has been sentenced to prison in connection with a high-speed pursuit that ended in the death of a Blount County sheriff’s deputy last year.
According to the Blount County District Attorney’s Office, Dalton Michael Bowman was sentenced to 20 years in Tennessee Department of Correction custody for evading arrest in a case that resulted in the death of Deputy Justin Mowery in December 2025.
Prosecutors said the incident began when Deputy Mowery attempted to stop a motorcycle that was allegedly traveling recklessly at a high rate of speed. Authorities stated the motorcyclist began passing vehicles in the wrong lane and failed to stop, prompting a pursuit.
During the chase, officials said Deputy Mowery lost control of his patrol vehicle, leading to a crash that proved fatal. Investigators later identified Bowman as the operator of the motorcycle involved in the incident.
The charge stems from evading arrest, which authorities say directly contributed to the circumstances leading to the deputy’s death.
During sentencing, Mowery’s mother delivered a victim impact statement, urging the defendant to use the outcome as an opportunity for personal change.
District Attorney General Ryan Desmond said Deputy Mowery “gave his life in service to this community,” adding that fleeing from law enforcement at high speeds puts officers and the public at serious risk.
Officials reiterated that reckless evasion incidents remain a significant safety concern for both law enforcement and motorists.
