The Rutherford Roundup

In Today’s Episode:

• A two-day undercover human trafficking operation in Murfreesboro leads to the arrest of 24-year-old Jefferson Gomez on a felony charge of sexual servitude. The joint effort involved the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Tennessee Human Trafficking Task Force, and Murfreesboro Police. Gomez remains jailed on a $150,000 bond, with court dates set for March 30 and May 18. Investigators also worked to connect potential victims with advocacy partners.

• Legislative scrutiny intensifies as State Representative Tim Rudd introduces House Bill 1698, aiming to require sworn testimony from executive branch employees before legislative committees. The proposal would impose potential Class C misdemeanor perjury charges for intentional deception. The bill is now in House subcommittee, with a Senate companion advancing.

  

• Confusion surrounds a proposed immigrant detention facility in Lebanon after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement initially confirmed plans tied to a nationwide expansion, then reversed course citing an unapproved statement. Local officials in Wilson County say they were unaware of any finalized plans.

• On the statewide political front, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn, now running for governor, is urging support for a constitutional amendment that would prohibit a state property tax. Tennessee currently does not levy a state-level property tax, though local governments collect property taxes.

• A major dining addition is coming to The Fountains at Gateway in Murfreesboro. Chinwag, a new full-service restaurant from Hell’s Kitchen Season 21 winner Alex Belew and Nashville pitmaster Shane Nasby, is set to open by summer 2026 at 1440 Medical Center Parkway. The globally inspired concept will focus on smoke and fire-driven dishes alongside craft cocktails, beer, and wine.

• Murfreesboro Police are encouraging businesses, churches, and community members to register on-site automated external defibrillators through the free PulsePoint AED registry. Officials say the registry can help first responders direct callers to the nearest device during cardiac emergencies.

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