Kingsport, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Jametrick Franklin King, a major drug dealer and gang leader linked to the Gangster Disciples, was arrested following a high-speed chase on Interstate 81 in Kingsport. The chase ended when he crashed his vehicle in Virginia. King, who was wanted for probation violations and drug trafficking, has a lengthy criminal history involving violent crimes. His arrest is seen as a significant step towards combating gang-related activities in the region.
Kingsport, Tennessee – Major drug dealer and gang leader Jametrick Franklin King was arrested on Monday following a high-speed chase on Interstate 81. The U.S. Marshals Service confirmed that King, a known figure in the criminal underworld, was apprehended after fleeing from law enforcement while exceeding speeds of 100 miles per hour.
According to authorities, King was wanted in Washington County, Tennessee, for violations of probation and burglary charges. In addition to these local allegations, he also faced a federal indictment in U.S. District Court in Greeneville for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
The incident unfolded when U.S. Marshals teamed up with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) to arrest King in Kingsport. However, as law enforcement closed in, he spotted a marked vehicle and decided to flee, driving dangerously along the highway. Throughout the pursuit, King reportedly drove onto the shoulder of the highway in an attempt to evade capture.
The chase continued across state lines into Virginia, where King lost control of his vehicle and crashed on I-81. Fortunately, he did not sustain any injuries from the collision but was extracted from his vehicle and taken to Bristol Regional Medical Center for evaluation. Following his release from the hospital, he was transported to Carter County Jail, where he is currently held pending further legal proceedings.
King’s arrest is significant, as he has a documented history of violent crime, which includes aggravated robbery and the sale and delivery of controlled substances. His activity not only reflects the ongoing issues of gang violence and drug trafficking in the region, but also underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in containing such criminal enterprises.
He is identified as a leader of the Gangster Disciples, a street gang based in Knoxville, which has been linked to various criminal activities including narcotics distribution and violent offenses. King has previously eluded law enforcement several times, raising concerns about his ability to continue leading criminal operations.
The community is relieved by King’s capture as it represents a step toward curbing gang-related activities pushing local drug problems. Authorities emphasize that ongoing efforts are necessary to dismantle the networks that support such criminal organizations.
Background Information
Jametrick Franklin King’s lengthy criminal history has made him a well-known figure among law enforcement circles. His leadership role within the Gangster Disciples highlights a larger issue with gangs dominating certain areas in Tennessee and surrounding states. Such gangs often engage in violent confrontations and are linked to significant narcotics trafficking, mainly focusing on methamphetamine, which has devastated communities.
King’s criminal activity is representative of a wider issue facing law enforcement as they navigate the complexities of gang rivalries and the drug trade in the region. The need for collaboration among various law enforcement agencies is more critical than ever to combat gang violence and drug distribution effectively.
FAQs
Who is Jametrick Franklin King?
Jametrick Franklin King is a major drug dealer and gang leader affiliated with the Gangster Disciples based in Knoxville, Tennessee. He has a history of violent crime and drug trafficking.
Why was King arrested?
King was arrested after a pursuit on Interstate 81, where he fled from law enforcement and crashed his vehicle. He was wanted for probation violations, burglary charges, and had a federal indictment for drug-related offenses.
What gang is King associated with?
He is associated with the Gangster Disciples, a street gang known for involvement in drug distribution and violent crime.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | Jametrick Franklin King |
| Charges | Violations of probation, burglary, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine |
| Pursuit Speed | Over 100 mph |
| Crash Location | I-81, Virginia |
| Arresting Agencies | U.S. Marshals Service and Tennessee Highway Patrol |
| Court Jurisdiction | U.S. District Court, Greeneville |
| Gang Affiliation | Gangster Disciples |
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Additional Resources
- WJHL: Major Drug Dealer and Gang Leader Arrested
- Wikipedia: Gangster Disciples
- WFSB: Bristol Police Bust Man with Crack
- Google Search: Bristol Crime
- WCYB: Bristol Police Arrest Man for Fentanyl Possession
- Google Scholar: Fentanyl Crisis
- Supertalk 929: Police Arrest Known Gang Member
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- WTNH: Bristol Drug Bust Reveals Crack Cocaine
- Google News: Bristol Drug Bust
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
