Local law enforcement has been busy in the New Year time frame. Here is the local POLICE BEAT: With assistance from Smyrna Police, Murfreesboro officers served a warrant on an employee at a business in Smyrna.

DeMario L. Watkins of Murfreesboro was charged with aggravated assault and kidnapping. His bond was set at $20,000 and his first court appearance is set for January 8, 2018. (complaint # 17-27369)

A Tobasco Way resident told Murfreesboro Police that their 2014 Honda Pilot struck while parked near Outback Steakhouse on Christmas Eve afternoon. The vehicle received heavy driver's side damage to the front fender, bumper and fog light. As of this time, police have no witnesses. However, it is hoped that surveillance video from nearby stores might show something.

And be careful when ordering a new cell phone. A Murfreesboro resident ordered a new device, but later discovered that the account had not been updated in quite some time. In other words, his phone was sent to his old address. Although they cancelled the original order in less than a half-hour--the new phone was still shipped to the customer's former address. To make a long story "short", the provider delivered the phone and no one seems to have it. The victim is still being charged the $699 for the cell phone, and has filed a report with Murfreesboro Police (case # 17-27237).

And that's our POLICE BEAT update.