Detectives

Chief Detective Gene Hargis
Detective Gene Hargis has been the Chief Detective for the Marion County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD) since 1996, a position he earned after being promoted by Sheriff Pooster Haskew just two years into his tenure with the department. Throughout his career, he has served under three sheriffs: Haskew, Webb, and currently Burnett. Gene began his law enforcement journey as an auxiliary officer with the South Pittsburg Police Department in 1990 and later worked for the Kimball Police Department for 18 months. He is proud of his extensive record of achieving hundreds of felony convictions, encompassing serious offenses such as homicide, theft, child abuse, and drug-related crimes. Gene began his law enforcement journey as an auxiliary officer with the South Pittsburg Police Department in 1990 and later worked for the Kimball Police Department for 18 months. He is proud of his extensive record of achieving hundreds of felony convictions, encompassing serious offenses such as homicide, theft, child abuse, and drug-related crimes. In addition to his law enforcement duties, Gene is actively involved with the 12th Judicial Children’s Advocacy Center, which serves Marion, Sequatchie, Franklin, and Rhea counties, demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of children in the community. His dedication to combating drug-related issues was recognized in 1998 when he received the Director’s Pin from the Southeast Methamphetamine Task Force. Detective Hargis’s long-standing commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Marion County is truly commendable. * #

Detective Chad Johnson
Chad Johnson became a Police officer in 1999. Chad began his career at the Whitwell Police Department where he worked his way from Patrol Officer to Lieutenant. In 2005, Chad was hired as a Detective with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office with the primary focus of eradicating local methamphetamine production. In 2008, Chad was assigned to a Federal Task Force where he spent nearly 8 years conducting investigations involving national and international drug trafficking, illegal firearms possession, and money laundering. In 2016, Chad was assigned to the 12th Judicial Drug and Violent Crime Task Force (DTF). Currently in addition to conducting drug trafficking investigations, Chad also serves as the Director of the DTF and the Director of the Marion County Special Operations Division (SOD) where he oversees multiple units including the SWAT Team, Dive Team, and Marine Unit. Chad manages numerous State and Federal Grants that allow both the DTF and SOD to operate and obtain specialized equipment. Chad has attended numerous specialized training classes and was selected to attend the TBI State Academy in 2014. Chad has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Bethel University and has conducted thousands of Criminal Investigations during his career. * #

Detective Beth Raulston
Lt. Beth Raulston began her career with the Marion County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD) in November 1999 as a corrections officer. She served in that capacity for six months before transitioning to dispatch for two years. In 2002, she attended the Basic Law Enforcement Academy and became a road deputy. Her exemplary performance led to a promotion to sergeant within just a few short months. In June 2007, Lt. Raulston advanced to the role of detective, where she distinguished herself through her dedication and investigative skills. In January 2024, she was promoted to the position of lieutenant, expanding her responsibilities to include overseeing other departments within MCSD while still managing numerous cases as a detective. Just a few of her remarkable accomplishments include serving as a negotiator on the MCSD SWAT team, being a Task Force Agent for the TBI Tennessee Task Force, completing the prestigious National Forensic Academy in 2022, and specializing in prosecuting crimes against children. Lt. Beth Raulston is highly regarded for her commitment to serving Marion County, earning the admiration and respect of her colleagues within MCSD, the broader law enforcement community, and the citizens of the county. Her dedication and professionalism continue to make a significant impact on public safety and community trust. * #

Detective Paige Durham
Detective Paige Durham began her career with the Marion County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD) in August 2015 as a corrections officer. She demonstrated exceptional dedication and skill, leading to her promotion to road deputy at the beginning of 2018 after graduating from the Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy. In the fall of 2022, she achieved another milestone in her career by being promoted to detective. An athletic individual, Detective Durham’s physical fitness is a significant asset, allowing her to serve effectively on both the Marion County SWAT team and the Child Abduction Response Team. Her commitment to excellence in law enforcement reflects her ambition to become as proficient as her counterparts. Detective Durham exemplifies the promising and dedicated members of MCSD, continuing to make her dreams a reality while contributing to the safety and well-being of her community. * #
Our detectives carry a heavy load of responsibilities, ensuring our community remains safe and secure. Their days are filled with crucial tasks that go beyond solving crimes—they’re integral to building trust and justice. From following up on reports completed by our deputies, they assess whether further investigation is needed or identify problem areas that may require increased patrols to deter crime. Each investigation starts with determining persons of interest. Our detectives conduct interviews, gather evidence, and work diligently to bring cases to resolution—whether through an arrest or preparing for court. They stand in court to present cases, meet with victims to provide support, and collaborate with the district attorney’s office to ensure justice is served. Starting, updating, and completing case files is just another part of their vital role. Continuous training is essential! Our detectives are committed to meeting the training requirements set by the state of Tennessee POST, as well as staying current with the latest investigative tools and techniques. When it comes to evidence, they’re responsible for transporting it to Nashville for thorough analysis at the TBI lab, ensuring every detail is meticulously handled. And let’s not forget, they are always ready to respond to calls whenever needed, standing as the first line of defense for our community.
*All biographies of Marion County Detectives do NOT reflect all of their certifications and/or training. The dates are approximate. These biographies are a synopsis of their work history, training, certifications, and experiences.
#The job description list is just a general description of the duties required, not all nor official.