Officer under investigation for domestic dispute and misconduct

On October 18, 2023, Johnson City police officers responded to a domestic dispute involving off-duty Officer David Smith at his residence on Longview Drive. The initial call, made by Smith's fiancée, reported a verbal argument during which Smith allegedly threatened to lock her out of their shared home. Officers determined that the dispute was verbal and no assault had occurred.

Later that evening, at approximately 10:11 p.m., officers returned to the residence after another call from Smith's fiancée, who claimed to witness officers damaging property via surveillance cameras. Smith contended that the property in question was jointly owned by him and his fiancée. During this second encounter, Smith brought Lieutenant Drew Guider to the scene, asserting that he had not damaged his department-issued radio, which appeared to have a broken antenna.

Witnesses, including neighbors, reported seeing police activity at Smith's home, with one noting the presence of Halloween decorations and overturned plants in the yard. The investigation revealed that Smith's conduct during the incidents included discourteous and vulgar language directed at the responding officers, as well as derogatory remarks about his fiancée and her children.

While the investigation concluded that Smith did not commit a felony or damage department equipment, he was found to have violated departmental policies regarding unbecoming conduct and courtesy. The findings highlight the complexities surrounding officer conduct off-duty and the implications for community trust in law enforcement.