NASHVILLE, TN – A Franklin County Grand Jury has indicted two Tennessee men following a lengthy investigation into the alleged theft and sale of more than $114,000 worth of cattle from a local farm operation. According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Carl Dwayne Lynn of Franklin County and Nicholas Carl King of Grundy County have been charged with theft of property valued between $60,000 and $250,000, as well as criminal conspiracy. Investigators allege that 94 head of cattle were sold without the owner’s knowledge or permission over a period spanning nearly four years, from March 2022 through November 2025.
What makes the case particularly noteworthy is the relationship between the victim and one of the suspects. According to investigators, Lynn had worked for the victim’s family for more than 20 years and had been entrusted with helping manage portions of the cattle operation. The investigation began after the cattle producer noticed discrepancies involving livestock records and cattle sales. As questions mounted, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Crime Unit partnered with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office to determine what had happened. Authorities say investigators discovered that cattle belonging to the victim had allegedly been sold through a regional livestock stockyard using another individual’s name. Agricultural Crime Unit Lead Special Agent Mike Whaley reviewed sales records and surveillance footage connected to livestock transactions and cattle transportation, ultimately leading to the indictments.
Agricultural Crime Unit Special Agent in Charge Greg Whitehead said agricultural crimes can have a devastating impact on farm families and rural communities, noting the importance of cooperation between state and local investigators. Franklin County Sheriff Tim Fuller echoed those comments, praising the partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and the Agricultural Crime Unit. Both defendants have been arrested and remain incarcerated at the Franklin County Jail pending court proceedings.
For many farmers, cattle represent years of investment, labor, and livelihood. Investigators say this case highlights the importance of recordkeeping, oversight, and reporting suspicious activity when discrepancies are discovered. As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and both men are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
ACU is a vital component of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s mission to serve, support and promote agriculture and forestry in the state. ACU law enforcement officers investigate and enforce state laws related to the agricultural community. To accomplish this work they collaborate with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. To contact ACU call 844-AG-CRIME (844-242-7463) or email Agriculture.Crime@tn.gov.
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