A new Tennessee House bill proposes allowing EMS stations to install baby box drop-offs for safe infant surrender, expanding the state’s Safe Haven Law. Currently, newborns can be surrendered at hospitals, clinics, fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and other staffed locations within 45 days of birth without prosecution. The bill would add ambulance stations as …
The husband and son accused of killing a Sequatchie County woman have pleaded not guilty. David Gardiner and his stepson, Gabriel Vilchez, appeared in court on Thursday, denying charges in the death of Silvia Vilchez. Investigators say her burned body was located Monday, October 27, 2025, in the Lewis Chapel community, where burned remains were …
A recent Tennessee law makes it possible for facility dogs to accompany victims and witnesses in courtrooms throughout the state as they give testimony. Before this legislation, only select judicial districts allowed facility dogs during courtroom proceedings and forensic interviews. Now, any jurisdiction may permit these trained animals if approved by the presiding judge. The …
