Second Sevier Co. Clerk Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Charge

The second of two Sevier County Clerks that were involved in a scheme to license stolen vehicles in exchange for cash has plead guilty to charges against her. Brandy Thornton was in court yesterday in Sevierville and she entered a guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to obtain property not due to an official and her office, under color of official right. Thornton along with her co-worker Roberta Allen, were arrested back in July of 2020 for accepting cash and food from Juan Lopez Gallardo in exchange for issuing registration and titles for stolen vehicles. Gallardo was involved in a drug trafficking ring that included stolen vehicles moving from Florida to Tennessee.

Roberta Allen, who was considered a “minimal participant” in the crime had plead guilty back in February. She faces up to 20 years in prison. Brandy Thornton however faces a minimum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.