Jonesborough, TN – Three individuals were arrested Thursday after deputies allegedly discovered them inside a residence in Washington County, leading to multiple charges including burglary and drug possession.
According to Washington County Sheriff Keith Sexton, the arrests happened Thursday while deputies were patrolling along Painter Creek Road and noticed a suspicious vehicle at a home believed to be unoccupied. Upon further investigation, authorities reported the back door was open, prompting deputies to enter the residence where the three suspects were allegedly found inside.
The individuals were identified as James E. Cottrill, 49, of Piney Flats, Tina Louise Hensley, 55, of Limestone, and Tiffany Diane Burgess, 42, of Chuckey. All three were charged with burglary, vandalism, and aggravated criminal trespass in connection with the incident.
Deputies also alleged that Cottrill was found in possession of 11.1 grams of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest, resulting in an additional charge of possession of methamphetamine. Authorities repeatedly stated the charges stem from evidence allegedly collected at the scene and during the arrest process.
All three suspects were transported to the Washington County Detention Center following their arrests. Cottrill and Burgess each received bonds set at $25,000, while Hensley’s bond was set at $15,000.
The trio is scheduled to appear in court Monday, where the allegations will be formally addressed.
Officials have not released additional details about the condition of the residence or whether anything was taken during the alleged burglary. The investigation remains ongoing.
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