Chattanooga, TN – Chattanooga Police Department Investigator Tim McFarland received the Commander’s Award for Excellence for his role in a case that began in August 2022 and led to a suspect being sentenced to 54 months in prison on multiple firearms and explosives violations.
On August 31, 2022, McFarland alerted Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) about the arrest of a man on state charges of attempted homicide and possession of explosive materials.
A search of the suspect’s Chattanooga home uncovered explosive components and other illicit items. Investigators later learned that the man had asked a family member to remove additional prohibited materials, including pipe bombs, Molotov cocktails, and hand grenades.
The suspect was released on bond the same day, and the following day, HSI obtained a warrant for charges related to the possession of explosives and prohibited weapons.
He was located at a home in Harrison, Tennessee, where he barricaded himself and refused to surrender. McFarland assisted in bringing him into custody after a 40-minute negotiation. The suspect later admitted to purchasing, modifying, and constructing illegal firearms and explosives in violation of federal law.
Officials recognized McFarland’s dedication, teamwork, and commitment to public safety in bringing the case to a successful resolution.