Johnny Yarbrough pleads guilty to second degree murder
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY GENERAL FREDERICK H. AGEE:
Johnny Yarbrough Pleads Guilty to Second Degree Murder
On December 4, 2025, in the Circuit Court of Gibson County, Johnny Yarbrough, Jr. (31 years old), pled guilty to Second Degree Murder and was sentenced to serve 25 years at 100% in the Tennessee Department of Correction. Yarbrough also pled guilty to being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Robbery and was sentenced to 8 years of supervision by State Probation and Parole, after he has served his 25 years. Both sentences are Consecutive to a 2-year sentence he is currently serving for Felony Evading Arrest. He must also complete Moral Reconation Therapy, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, and Vocational Training in TDOC, and comply with mandatory drug screening and maintain full-time employment once released to supervision.
When a defendant enters a guilty plea they knowingly and voluntarily waive their right to an appeal.
On November 30, 2022, Yarbrough, along with co-defendants, Tyler Pierce and Amanda Cathey, went to Joseph Simpson’s residence, who was a person they were acquainted with. The trio were armed with a handgun they used to rob Simpson and his roommates. During the robbery, a struggle ensued resulting in Simpson being shot and dying from his injuries. The defendants fled and were later apprehended by law enforcement in possession of the weapon and stolen items from the residence.
SEE ALSO:
- Sheriff gives new details on fatal Gibson County shooting (12/2/25)
- Third suspect in Gibson County shooting arrested (12/6/25)
Pierce has previously pled to Second Degree Murder, and Cathey is scheduled for a jury trial.
“This was a senseless murder committed during the perpetration of a violent robbery. Yarbrough not only violated the sanctity of Mr. Simpson’s home but also needlessly took the victim’s life in pursuit of selfish gain. Our Office is committed to removing such violent offenders to keep our community safe. We are grateful to former Investigator and now Rutherford Police Chief Nick Milan and the Gibson County Sheriff’s Department for their diligent investigation of this case.”
– Frederick H. Agee, District Attorney General
This case was prosecuted by District Attorney General Frederick H. Agee and Assistant District Attorney Nina W. Seiler.
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