Knoxville TN, October 8, 2025
News Summary
Anthony Rizo, a former officer with the Knoxville Police Department, had charges against him dismissed due to insufficient evidence. The charges stemmed from allegations of stalking and unauthorized monitoring involving his estranged wife’s relationship. After fleeing to avoid prosecution, Rizo faced additional charges that were also dismissed. With the court sealing his criminal records, the case raises discussions on accountability in law enforcement and the conduct of officers off-duty.
Knoxville
Charges against former Knoxville Police Department and University of Tennessee Police Department officer Anthony Rizo, 34, have been dismissed due to insufficient evidence. The dismissals were finalized on August 25, 2025, when court documents showed that the charges were dropped Nolle Prosequi, meaning they could not be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Rizo was originally arrested in December 2024 on stalking charges in Georgia. He was accused of intent to harass a man believed to be in a relationship with his estranged wife. Allegations included placing recording devices without consent to monitor the victim’s movements and conversations. Following the accusations, Rizo fled to avoid prosecution, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant from Georgia.
In addition to the stalking charges, an additional fugitive from justice charge against Rizo was dismissed in Knox County in June 2025. Furthermore, the court ruling has determined that all criminal history record information related to Rizo’s case will be sealed, prohibiting the disclosure of any information without a court order.
Background on Anthony Rizo
Rizo’s tenure with the University of Tennessee Police Department lasted just over seven months before his termination due to alleged off-duty actions occurring in Georgia. Prior to his role at UTPD, Rizo served with the Knoxville Police Department from March 2021 to May 2024. His abrupt departure from law enforcement has raised questions about accountability and oversight in policing.
The charges against Rizo have now been officially dismissed as of October 7, 2025, concluding his legal battles that stemmed from his conduct off-duty. The sealing of his case records ensures that this matter will not be made public without further legal action.
Summary of Charges and Dismissals
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| December 2024 | Arrest | Stalking and Peeping Tom charges in Georgia |
| August 25, 2025 | Dismissal of Charges | Nolle Prosequi due to insufficient evidence |
| June 2025 | Dismissing Fugitive from Justice Charge | This additional charge was also dismissed in Knox County |
| October 7, 2025 | Official Dismissal | All charges officially dismissed |
Implications and Next Steps
While Rizo has been cleared of the specific charges that were brought against him, the implications of his actions—particularly as a former law enforcement officer—continue to resonate within public discussions regarding police accountability and the monitoring of off-duty behavior among officers. The case highlights ongoing conversations about the ethics of law enforcement personnel and the measures in place for addressing inappropriate conduct.
FAQ Section
What were the charges against Anthony Rizo?
Rizo was arrested on stalking charges and Peeping Tom charges in Georgia.
When were the charges dismissed?
The charges were dismissed on August 25, 2025.
Why were the charges dismissed?
The charges were dismissed Nolle Prosequi due to insufficient evidence to prove them beyond a reasonable doubt.
What will happen to Rizo’s criminal record?
The court will seal all criminal history record information related to Rizo’s case, and no information will be revealed without a court order.
What prior law enforcement experience does Anthony Rizo have?
Rizo worked for the UTPD for just over seven months before being terminated and previously served with the Knoxville Police Department from March 2021 to May 2024.
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Additional Resources
- Knoxville Man Arrested for Felony Stalking – KNIA KRLS
- Wikipedia: Stalking
- KPD Deputy Chief Named in Lawsuit – WBIR
- Google Search: Knoxville Police Department accountability
- Former KPD Officer Arrested in Georgia – WATE
- Google Scholar: Law Enforcement Ethics
- UT Police Officer Arrested – Knox News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Accountability
- Justin Keller Charged with Stalking – KCCI
- Google News: Criminal Justice
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox 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 Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
