Former correctional officer sentenced to 10 years in federal prison

DYER COUNTY, TN – Sheriff Jeff Box of the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office announces that former Correctional Officer Tyrell Wallace was sentenced today in Federal Court to ten years of incarceration in federal prison, followed by five years of felony probation.

This sentence comes as a result of Wallace’s attempted introduction of a substantial quantity of controlled substances into the Dyer County Jail.

In October 2024, the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division charged Wallace with attempting to introduce over 50 grams of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of marijuana, 150 fentanyl pills, 3 grams of crack cocaine, 8 suboxone strips, and a cell phone into the jail.

These actions were discovered after an investigation was conducted that raised alarming concerns about Wallace’s integrity, which prompted investigators to question and arrest the former correctional officer as he reported to his night shift duties.

Additionally, at the time of his arrest, Wallace was found in possession of a loaded 9mm pistol and 40 rounds of ammunition while transporting these narcotics, highlighting the severity of his offenses and the risks posed to the community and his colleagues.

Sheriff Jeff Box issued a statement regarding this egregious breach of trust:

“Today, justice has been served. The actions of Tyrell Wallace, not only violated the law, but also betrayed the trust placed into him as a correctional officer. When Wallace was arrested in October 2024, he was immediately terminated, charged, and his arrest was made public which is a critical prevention tool by educating the public on legal consequences which helps correctional agencies stop the flow of contraband which plague jails and prisons nationwide. Today, this sentencing sends a strong message that our community and our law enforcement officers are not above the law. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability, ensuring the safety of our citizens and the sanctity of our correctional facilities. We appreciate the outstanding work of our Chief Inv. McCreight, Inv. Jim Joyner, Inv. Carson, Inv. Defoe, and Inv. Caldwell. Let this be a reminder to all that we will continue to uphold the law with unwavering diligence and honor.”

This case was prosecuted collaboratively by the 29th District Attorney’s Office and the Office of the US Attorney General for the Western District. We extend our gratitude to Assistant District Attorney Andrew Hays, a Special Assistant US Attorney appointed by General Danny Goodman of the 29th Judicial District, and the honorable D. Michael Dunavant, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, for their role in achieving this successful outcome.

The Dyer County Sheriff’s Office is committed to serving the community and ensuring justice is upheld in all cases. Any allegations of misconduct will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the law.

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