Police Chief Paul Noel Suspended Without Pay
By Jeaneane Payne, Editor
August 6, 2026, 1:53 p.m.

KNOXVILLE - Today, Mayor Indya Kincannon announced the suspension of Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel for one month without pay. This decision follows a thorough third-party investigation conducted at the request of the Knoxville Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards (OPS).

	Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel

The investigation uncovered inappropriate text communications between Chief Noel and Officer Jasmine Reed, a female subordinate. These communications were discovered incidentally during an unrelated inquiry led by OPS.

“I want the community to know that I hold every City employee, no matter their rank — to the same high standards,” stated Mayor Kincannon. “I am disappointed, shocked, and disheartened by Chief Noel’s actions. These actions violate several professional Codes of Conduct, as well as my own expectations for any City employee, particularly someone in a leadership position.”

In addition to the suspension, Mayor Kincannon has mandated that Chief Noel participate in counseling and leadership training to address these issues comprehensively. During his absence, Assistant Chief David Powell will assume leadership duties for the Knoxville Police Department.

Mayor Kincannon expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by the Office of Professional Standards: “I want to thank the men and women of KPD’s Office of Professional Standards who quickly flagged these allegations and brought the matter to my attention. This office exists to ensure accountability and to bring to light any signs of misconduct.”

Throughout the suspension period, Chief Noel will be prohibited from representing the Knoxville Police Department or the City in any official capacity.

Prior to commencing his suspension, Chief Noel issued the following statement: “I am profoundly sorry to my family, our department, and the Knoxville community. I have failed to uphold the high standards I have for myself and every member of KPD. I accept full responsibility for my actions and for the consequences that follow. An apology alone will not restore any trust that has been damaged. Trust must be earned through accountability and sustained action over time. I understand that, and I am committed to doing the work necessary to regain that trust.”

The suspension is effective this afternoon, August 6, 2026.