Vice Unit

The Vice Unit investigates crimes related to illegal drugs, gambling and prostitution.

The Vice Unit of the Kingsport Police Department placed 916 charges on 509 suspects in 2009 including charges of possession and possession for resale of Schedule I, II, III, IV, and VI drugs, obtaining narcotics by fraud, maintaining a dwelling where controlled substances are used or sold, possession of counterfeit controlled substances, manufacturing methamphetamine, TennCare fraud, forgery, aggravated assault, resisting arrest, criminal impersonation, various gun related crimes and alcohol related crimes. The number of charges decreased approximately 43% from 2008, and there was a 29% decrease in number of people charged from 2008. The Vice Unit seized drugs with an estimated street value of $518,419. A total amount of $279,577.80, which is an decrease of approximately 50% from 2008. A total amount of $121,351.00 in cash was seized which is a decrease of approximately 32% from 2008. In addition, the unit seized a total of 70 vehicles with an estimated value of $574,050, which is an increase of 64% from 2008. Of the 916 charges, 247 (27%) were the result of fraudulent prescription investigations, down from 1,078 in 2008. This is a 77% decrease from 2008.

The vice unit contact number is 229-9434.

The Drug Task Force is a local cooperative effort among the KPD, the Bristol TN PD, the Sullivan County Sheriffs Department and the TBI in long term investigation of suspected drug suppliers.