Authorities were called to a store after a disturbance involving a disorderly patron. Staff confirmed that merchandise had been knocked over and confrontations had occurred.
On January 20, 2026, at approximately 9:19 PM, the Knoxville Police Department was dispatched to the 300 block of W. Pleasant St. following a report of Brandon Pettyjohn attempting to fight other patrons and knocking over merchandise in a store.
Upon arrival, officers spoke with store employees, who stated that Pettyjohn had been yelling and knocking over items in the store. Security camera footage confirmed that Pettyjohn was yelling and getting into the faces of other individuals.
Court documents indicate that while being detained, officers detected the odor of alcohol on Pettyjohn’s breath. He also displayed bloodshot, watery eyes and slurred speech. Despite multiple attempts by officers to engage him, Pettyjohn refused to speak and declined to provide any statements. Additionally, he was offered a preliminary breath test several times but refused.
Pettyjohn is currently being held in the Marion County Jail with a $1,000 cash/surety bond. A pretrial conference is scheduled for February 12, 2026.
He has been charged with:
- Public intoxication (simple misdemeanor)
- Disorderly conduct – fighting/violent behavior (simple misdemeanor)
