Gwyn sworn in as TBI director: McMinnville native vows to fight meth
|
Gwyn, 41, was sworn in Monday by Gov. Phil Bredesen and will now serve a six-year term as head of the state’s chief law enforcement agency. He is replacing his former boss, Larry Wallace, who retired last year. Gwyn is the bureau’s eighth director.
“The TBI will continue to provide you with the highest level of support possible,” Gwyn said. “The TBI is a strong organization with great people, and I plan to build on that.”
Bredesen said Gwyn “brings the dedication and professionalism and vision for change that I’m confident will continue to move the TBI forward.”
In an interview with the Southern Standard, Gwyn said he plans to take an overview of the agency and then make any changes necessary to make the TBI function better.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Gwyn said. “I’m going to look at the departments and if there are changes needed, then I’ll make those changes.”
In his inaugural address, Gwyn said his highest priorities are fighting the state’s meth problem and increasing the state’s computer forensics division, which retrieves evidence from computers used in crimes.
Gwyn attained the position as director after serving with the TBI in various capacities for 16 years. His duties for the TBI included that of a field agent, serving the Warren County area, along with working as a spokesperson and executive officer for the agency. Most recently, he oversaw the TBI’s crime lab.
Gwyn, who emerged from a field of 52 applicants, defeated two highly qualified finalists to get the job: Memphis Crime Commission director Michael J. Heidingsfield and Security Services executive Leon C. Schenck.
Prior to his time with the TBI, Gwyn served as a patrolman with McMinnville Police Department from 1985-88. A public reception for Gwyn in McMinnville has been tentatively scheduled for July 15.