$18K, guns seized in Smyrna gambling investigation

Authorities raided two locations in Smyrna late Tuesday night after a lengthy investigation into what they call illegal gambling.

One of the places searched by Smyrna police was Candlewood Suites near Sam Ridley Parkway, where there was a heavy police presence before 10 p.m.

Authorities have yet to identify the second location searched as part of the investigation.

As a result of both search warrants, officers seized over $18,000 in cash, guns, a small amount of narcotics, and gambling paraphernalia.

“With the presence of money, guns, if someone feels cheated, unfortunately if someone feels cheated, it could lead to violent encounters,” said Sgt. Bobby Gibson. “We could have people involved in these encounters, or worse, someone absolutely uninvolved in this could be collateral injuries.”

Two men, Russell Hairr and George Barton, were arrested and charged with aggravated promotion of gambling and possession of gambling devices.

Both are being held at the Rutherford County jail. The investigation is ongoing and other charges are still pending.

Courtesy of WKRN News 2