the rhonda daugherty case - December 3, 2014, - present

Court sentences Vann to 40 years
By Susan Sharp
When Lonnie Vann agreed he was guilty of multiple felonies on Wednesday, he was sentenced to 40 years in prison. Considering he is 45-years-old, Vann was effectively given a life sentence.
And while the plea has put an end to Vann’s legal limbo, his destructiveness left one family heartbroken, another terrorized and community questioning how someone that once so trusted could hurt so many.
As Eighth Judicial District Attorney General Jared Effler presented the case on Wednesday, he described Vann’s actions from last year. Effler presented photos of Vann buying items it is believed he used to kill Rhonda Daugherty and later dispose of her body. And while those photos were hard to see, it was the last one that caused the silence in the courtroom to break. Effler chose as his last piece of evidence a photo of Daugherty while she was living. She was standing in front of a staircase in long black dress. Daugherty had a wide smile in the photo. When it was displayed in the courtroom, family and friends of Daugherty began to cry.
When pleas are used to settle criminal cases, the victims are allowed to address the court. In this hearing, Charles Daugherty, who was made a widower by Vann’s actions, was first.
He described a courtship that began when his wife was 14-years-old. Sharing how the two became high school sweethearts, later marrying and starting a family, Charles Daugherty’s testimony prompted more tears from those in attendance. Remaining stone faced, Charles Daugherty said he and his wife were “close to the point of being empty nesters” when his “life was shaken to the core.”
“Now I am faced with a life without her,” he said. Just before leaving the stand, Charles Daugherty expressed his need for closure that may never come in this case. “She was discarded and disposed of. She was not even given a proper Christian burial.” At no point did he look at Vann, who sat motionless throughout the one hour hearing.
Nancy Kitts, the mother who has grieved the loss of her only child, did look at Vann. Wearing a photo of her daughter around her neck on a yellow ribbon, Kitts read from a prepared statement. When she talked of Daugherty “being taken eight days before the birth” of her first grandchild, Kitts looked Vann unwaveringly in the face. It was the only time she acknowledged him.
The final witness, Jim Fields, who was robbed and tied up along with his wife, Diane, by Vann took a much more direct approach with the man whose turn it was to be restrained. While Vann sat silent wearing shackles and handcuffs, Fields said “It is hard for me to look at Lonnie right now. He was an employee of mine and it’s hard to realize he would do these terrible things."
Fields acknowledged that while he and his wife had been traumatized by Vann, their ordeal didn’t compare to what the Kitts/Daugherty family had endured.
The minor in the case from 2013, chose not to submit a Victim Impact Statement, according to Effler.
At the end of the hearing, Vann agreed he was guilty of tampering with evidence and assault in the proceedings that involved the minor. The solicitation of a minor charge was dropped.
When it came to the other charges, he pleaded guilty to second degree murder, kidnapping, two counts of aggravated robbery and two counts of especially aggravated kidnapping.
“The justice system usually works well, but it doesn’t do much to mend broken hearts,” Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton said.  (12/17/2015-6AM)
Vann’s descent outlined in court
Prosecutors describe a man who was calculating and chaotic at the same time
By Susan Sharp
Lonnie Vann was once a well-liked and respected Campbell County teacher who was a fixture at sporting events. At one time, he even managed the county’s summer intern program that places rising seniors in jobs in the county’s offices for 9 weeks.
However, his legal troubles began when Vann crossed the line with a student from one of his classes. The following is a timeline of Vann’s fall from grace and the events surrounding it:
Oct. 2013- Vann, a teacher at La Follette Middle School, takes a female student off campus without permission. The two go to Coolidge Baptist Church, where Vann is a member. While there he attempts to hug and kiss the girl. Days after this incident, Vann goes back to the church where he removes a hard drive that presumably shows him and the student at the church. He replaces the hard drive with another one.
July 2014- Vann is indicted for solicitation of a minor, tampering with evidence and assault.
Dec. 1, 2014- Vann tells his wife he has been hired by Celadon Trucking Company as a driver. He elaborates by telling her he must go to the company’s headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind. for training and presents her with an employment packet he has created. Vann rents a car in La Follette under the guise of driving it to Indiana. He goes as far as Clinton where he rents a motel room. Later, he goes to Walmart and purchases two black duffel bags, duct tape, zip ties, latex gloves and three Monster energy drinks.
Dec. 2, 2014- Charles Daugherty, Rhonda Daugherty’s husband, leaves from the couple’s Coolidge home for work. She is there and nothing seems amiss. At 8 am on this day, Vann is captured in hotel surveillance footage leaving the hotel carrying the black duffel bags. That same day he is seen on video at a Knoxville Lowe’s buying two lightweight cinder blocks and a Mountain Dew.  By 6:30 pm, Vann is checking into a Berea, Ky. hotel where he spends the night. In the meantime, Charles Daugherty has returned home to an empty house.
Dec. 3, 2104- Vann checks out of the Kentucky hotel and drives to Indiana where he exchanges his rental car for another one. That night he checks back into the same hotel.
Dec. 4, 2014- Vann orders a Domino’s pizza and leaves that hotel.
Dec. 5, 2014- He checks into a Corbin, Ky., hotel and drives back to Campbell County. Once in the county, he gets through the gate at Deerfield Resort. Vann goes to the home of Jim and Diane Fields, people he knows and has worked for. Vann tells the couple, as he is robbing them “I am in some trouble and I need some money to get away.” That night he drives back to Kentucky.
Dec. 6, 2104- Vann again checks out of a motel. That night he gets a room at the Compass Cove Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Dec. 12, 2014- South Carolina authorities arrest Vann.
Dec. 13, 2014- Campbell County Sheriff’s Department Det. Freddy White and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Agent Brandon Elkins arrive in South Carolina. They search Vann’s rental car finding zip ties resembling the ones used to restrain the Fields. A DNA analysis of other zip ties in the bag reveal Daugherty’s DNA on the plastic ties. The officers also find a black duffel bag matching the ones Vann purchased in Clinton. Following Vann’s arrest, police find the Lowe’s receipt in a fishing boat kept at Sugar Hollow Marina. On the sides of the boat they discover residue consistent with that from cinder blocks.
In the weeks that follow, local law enforcement assisted by numerous other agencies including the FBI and the rescuers who combed the San Francisco Bay looking for Lacy Peterson search Norris Lake in hopes of recovering Daugherty’s body. She has yet to be found.  (12/17/2015-6AM)
Vann pleads to list of felonies
 Gets 40 year sentence
In what many hope will put an end to a year of suffering, Lonnie Vann has agreed to go to jail for his crimes.
This morning, the 45-year-old former school teacher, pleaded guilty to second degree murder, kidnapping, two counts of aggravated robbery, two counts of especially aggravated kidnapping, tampering with evidence and assault.
He was sentenced to 40 years in prison as a result of the plea.
During the hearing, Eighth Judicial District Attorney Jared Effler painted a picture of a man who carried out a calculated plot to kidnap a person and dispose of the body. It was Rhonda Daugherty’s misfortune that she was the person.

Vann signs the plea deal that essentially gives him a life sentence in prison.
Laying out details such as where and when Vann purchased items to carry out his plan, Effler didn’t reveal why Daugherty was the chosen victim, the history, if any between the two, nor did he disclose the particulars of Daugherty’s kidnapping and subsequent death. Instead, Effler chose to focus of Vann’s near frantic activity in the days between Dec. 1, 2014 and Dec. 5, 2014.
According to Effler, Vann lied to his wife about a trucking job he had been offered and how he had to attend school for the position. He told her the school was in Indiana, even presenting her with a phony employment packet.
From there, Vann traveled between Campbell County, Knox County, and Anderson County, parts of Kentucky and Indiana for the next four days.
It is speculated, based on evidence, he kidnapped Daugherty from her home on Dec. 2, 2014.
Prior to Daugherty’s disappearance, Vann was seen on surveillance video at the Clinton Walmart and a Knoxville Lowe’s buying items such as duct tape, zip ties, cinder blocks and duffle bags.

Vann is seen on surveillance video buying items authorities believed were used in the kidnapping and murder of Daugherty.
In the days following Daugherty’s disappearance, Vann continued to bounce around three states, eventually returning to Campbell County, where he robbed Jim and Diane Fields, people who had employed and trusted him. As he was taking items from them, Vann said to the couple “I am in some trouble, and I need some money to get away,” Effler recounted for the court.
Leaving Campbell County again, Vann headed back to Kentucky where he spent the night. On Dec. 6, 2014, he checked out of a Red Roof Inn and traveled to the Compass Cove Resort in Myrtle Beach S. C.
For six days he evaded police, eventually being arrested by South Carolina authorities.
When Campbell County Sheriff’s Det. Freddie White and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Agent Brandon Elkins went to South Carolina to search Vann’s rental vehicle, they recovered a black duffle bag and zip ties. DNA analysis revealed Rhonda Daugherty’s DNA on the zip ties.
Despite thousands of hours spent searching for Daugherty, her body has yet to be recovered.  (12/16/2015-12:30PM)
Vann takes a plea
Packed courtroom this morning at Jacksboro
     WLAF’s Susan Sharp reports from Judge Shayne Sexton’s Criminal Courtroom at Jacksboro that Lonnie Vann has taken a plea.  Vann, charged with the murder and kidnapping of Rhonda Daugherty, pleaded guilty this morning to 2nd degree murder.  Sharp brings you more details through the day here on WLAF-AM, FM, TV, and DOTCOM.  (12/16/2015-9:10AM)
Vann case scheduled for this morning
Time to plead or set trial date
This morning at 9-AM, accused murderer Lonnie Vann will let the court know if he is ready plead or wants to face a jury.
This has been the lingering question since it was announced months ago that the state had made an offer in the homicide/ robbery case the former school teacher has found himself embroiled in for over a year.
While Vann was facing solicitation of a minor charges, Campbell County resident Rhonda Daugherty went missing. As officials began an intense search for Daugherty, a Deerfield couple was robbed in their home. As police worked to connect the felonious dots, Vann soon became the common point in all of the crimes.
Going on the run, Vann headed for the east coast, where he was located and arrested by officials in South Carolina at Myrtle Beach.
After being extradited back to Campbell County, a grand jury later indicted him in the kidnapping and murder of Daugherty, despite the absence of a body. He was also indicted for robbing the Deerfield homeowners.
Vann has been housed at the Knox County jail since being brought back to Tennessee. (12/16/2015-6AM)
Anniversary of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty's disappearance is today
Coolidge woman went missing a year ago
By Charlotte Underwood
It's been a year today since Campbell County woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty went missing from her home in the Coolidge community. A multitude of things have happened since her disappearance, including the birth of her grandchild, the death of her father and the arrest of her accused killer. And despite the fact that life goes on, it still feels like just yesterday that she was taken, according to her mother Nancy Kitts.  “In many ways, it feels like it just happened - all of it,” Kitts said, walking through the chain of events that led up to the day Rhonda disappeared. Rhonda's father had been sick and Rhonda had helped her mother set up hospice care on Friday and then visited Saturday, Sunday and Monday to help her mom and check on her father, who was terminally ill with cancer.  Then on Tuesday (Dec. 2, 2014), nothing. No phone call to check on her parents and no visit, which is what alerted Nancy that something was wrong. Daugherty usually called to check in with her mom by noon each day, and when Nancy had not heard from her by 2:30PM, she began calling her.
“I kept calling her.  Around dusky-dark, her husband came home and he called me right away to see if she was here. He said he had looked everywhere and that the back door to the house had been partially open when he came home,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that it was not like her daughter at all.
There was no sign of forced entry or a struggle inside the home. All of Daugherty’s belongings were left at the home, and so was her car. When Rhonda’s husband told Nancy that the door was open, and that Rhonda’s car and belongings were still at home, she said her heart dropped.  “I just knew something was wrong.”  What ensued was a massive search by local law enforcement and volunteers.  But no answers were to be found.
Then a break in the case came in the form of an armed robbery in the Deerfield community by Lonnie Lee Vann. At first investigators were reluctant to provide information about the case and whether or not there was a connection between Daugherty’s disappearance and the arrest of Vann, who after robbing a couple at gunpoint in Deerfield on Dec. 5, 2014, was added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Top Ten Most Wanted list and eventually apprehended in Myrtle Beach, S.C.  Then in January, Vann was indicted for Daugherty's murder and kidnapping by a Campbell County Grand Jury.  The massive search for Daugherty grew even larger, with the TBI heading up the case and focusing the search in the Sugar Hollow area. Multiple law enforcement agencies and dive teams came from all over to assist with the search, which a year later has still proved fruitless.  “If they could just find her, then there could be some closure,” Kitts said sadly, adding that she had not given up that hope. 
She said what she misses most is talking to her daughter, hearing her voice each day. In that respect, she said it feels like Rhonda has been gone “forever.”  “I was used to hearing her voice every day. Very seldom did a day go by that we didn't talk, and it feels like I haven't talked to her in forever, even though it's only been a year,” Kitts said.  The family has had to learn how to do a lot of firsts without Rhonda in their lives. This was the first Thanksgiving without her, and the absence casts a definite shadow over the holidays.  Kitts said she copes by leaving it in the Lord's hands, which isn't always easy, but she knows she has to stay strong in her faith. “I couldn't make it without the Lord– I struggle to understand, but His ways are not our ways.”  Kitts said she is grateful for all the prayers over the past year, and especially grateful that the community has not forgotten her daughter. She continues to pray that her body is found.  
Lonnie Lee Vann, the man accused of kidnapping and killing Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, will appear in court Dec. 16.  On that day, the trial will either be set, or charges resolved via a plea agreement offered to Vann by the state. Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton set aside Tuesday, May 31, 2016, for jury selection and to move forward with the trial, should the case not be resolved on Dec. 16.  The judge was adamant that Dec. 16 was the final deadline for accepting a plea. If Vann doesn’t accept a plea by that date, the case will move towards a trial. Kitts said she hopes the matter is resolved quickly, but that justice is served, and that “the one responsible” for her daughter's disappearance and death is “sorry for what he did and asks for forgiveness.”
“We need that closure – it's a hard life without her. The unanswered questions, the not knowing why this happened – it's hard, but we get by with the help of the Lord and we go from day to day, just taking it one day at a time,” Kitts said, adding that the community's prayers and remembrance of Rhonda meant so much to her.  “The community cared that this happened to her, and I appreciate they have not forgotten her. Because she was so much to me, I don't want her to be forgotten.” Rhonda would have turned 50 on Nov. 10. Her mother said she was grateful for the time she had with her daughter.“  “She was mine for 49 years, but she belonged to God – to Him, more than she belonged to me. She will always be the best part of my life.”
 
Remembrance for Rhonda this evening
A candlelight vigil and a remembrance of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty's life will be held at Coolidge Baptist Church this evening at 6 p.m., marking one year since her disappearance.  Kathy and Mike Terrence will be singing at the church that evening in remembrance of Rhonda and to celebrate her life. According to Rhonda's mother Nancy Kitts, the family wants to give people a chance to come out and light a candle in remembrance and perhaps share some memories about Rhonda.  “Losing her has shown me how truly she impacted people's lives. She loved people, and it showed in everything that she did. We wanted to give people a chance to come out and say what she meant to them, if they wish to share it,” Nancy Kitts said.  The family decided to hold the remembrance and candlelight vigil at the church because it just felt “right.”  “It was her church and it's a part of her life,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that anyone who wants to attend is welcome.  The remembrance will be held inside the church and the candlelight vigil will be held outside afterwards.  Those wishing to light candles are encouraged to bring their own.  Coolidge Baptist Church is located at 2486 Long Hollow Rd, La Follette. 
A message Nancy Kitts shares with you today
Rhonda Kitts Daugherty would be 50 years old today, November 10.
No farewell words were spoken.
No time to say goodbye.
You were gone before we knew it,
And only God knows why.
Our heart still aches in sadness
And secret tears still flow.
What it meant to lose you,
No one will ever know
Love Mom Nancy, Husband Charles and kids, Adam, Danielle and Hannah.  “You're spending your first birthday in heaven with Jesus and your daddy.”
Missing Campbell County woman would be 50-years old today
Family appreciates continued thoughts and prayers
By Charlotte Underwood
Missing for nearly a year now, Rhonda Kitts Daugherty would have been 50 years old today, according to her mother Nancy Kitts, who said she thinks of her everyday.  “Not a day goes by that I don't think of Rhonda – some days are harder than others, but above all, I'm grateful for time with my friends and family,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that she was also appreciative that others had not forgotten about Rhonda and “continue to pray” for the family. “She's spending her first birthday in heaven with Jesus and her daddy,” Nancy Kitts said. 

Rhonda Daugherty has been missing 344 days, and today would have been her 50th birthday.
The hardest part for her and the rest of the family is that Rhonda still has not been found, despite her accused murderer being apprehended. In January of this year, a Campbell County Grand Jury indicted former middle school teacher Lonnie Vann with the first degree murder and kidnapping of Daugherty. Vann, 44, is charged with two counts of first degree murder and one count of kidnapping.  Daugherty disappeared Dec. 2 from the Coolidge neighborhood where she lived. There had been speculation at the time that her disappearance was connected to Vann, who was wanted for an armed robbery which occurred in the Deerfield community around the time she went missing. After being on the run for a little over a week, Vann was apprehended in South Carolina and extradited back to Tennessee.  He currently remains jailed in Knox County on a $1 million bond. 
Since her disappearance, numerous man hours have been spent scouring parts of Norris Lake in search of Daugherty.  “The hardest part is that they still haven't found her after all this time,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that she knew it would be in the Lord's time.“  “His time is not our time and I know that; it's just hard right now, getting there – but I know, the Lord is in control.” She recalled with fondness the type of woman her daughter was – how Rhonda “loved people and cared about everyone she met.”  Nancy asked that the public continue to pray for Rhonda to be found, and she extended her own prayer. 
“My prayer for the one responsible for taking Rhonda is that he gets forgiveness, and that he is sorry he did this. I don't want him to go to hell and I know Rhonda wouldn't want him to go to hell – she wasn't that kind of person. His justice is in the Lord's hands, not in mine.” (11/10/2015 - 6:00 AM)
 
 
 
 
 
 
​




Accused murderer appears in court this morning

Lonnie Vann’s day in court postponed. Again.
Wednesday, Dec. 16. That’s the next time Lonnie Vann, the man charged in the disappearance and death of Rhonda Daugherty, is due in Campbell County Criminal Court.

At this morning’s hearing, Vann and his court appointed attorney Dale Potter were expected to let the court know how they plan to proceed in the matter that has him facing a myriad of felony charges. 

Instead, a laundry list of excuses was poured out before Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton.  Potter explained how he had personal issues in late August, and that kept from devoting proper time to Vann’s case. Potter also pointed out he had been given new discovery in Vann’s case. However, he and his boss, Public Defender Leif Jeffers could not meet to discuss the discovery because Jeffers is recovering from knee surgery and is homebound.

District Attorney General Jarred Effler was clearly not pleased.
During the quick hearing, Effler told the judge the two sides had “been unable to reach an agreement” so the state was requesting a trial date.

When Vann last appeared in court in August, it was revealed that prosecutors had made an offer that would resolve the bulk of his charges, which include murder, kidnapping and robbery. The solicitation of a minor case wasn’t included in the offer, according to Assistant District Attorney Tom Barclay. 

It was in August when Potter said his office had just received some of the evidence the state planned to proceed with, and he needed to review it before he and Vann could make a decision.

Sexton expressed that in a case of this magnitude plans need to be made for a trial. Sexton set aside Tuesday, May 31, 2016, for jury selection and to move forward with the trial. Speculation is that this trial could last at least two weeks.

The judge was adamant that Dec. 16 was the final deadline for accepting a plea. If Vann doesn’t accept a plea by that date, the case will move towards a trial.
Last week would have been Daugherty’s 50th birthday. Her body has yet to be
located.
 (11/16/2015 – 11:00 AM)

Missing Campbell County woman would be 50-years old today 
Family appreciates continued thoughts and prayers 
By Charlotte Underwood
Missing for nearly a year now, Rhonda Kitts Daugherty would have been 50 years old today, according to her mother Nancy Kitts, who said she thinks of her everyday.  “Not a day goes by that I don't think of Rhonda – some days are harder than others, but above all, I'm grateful for time with my friends and family,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that she was also appreciative that others had not forgotten about Rhonda and “continue to pray” for the family. “She's spending her first birthday in heaven with Jesus and her daddy,” Nancy Kitts said.  
The hardest part for her and the rest of the family is that Rhonda still has not been found, despite her accused murderer being apprehended. In January of this year, a Campbell County Grand Jury indicted former middle school teacher Lonnie Vann with the first degree murder and kidnapping of Daugherty. Vann, 44, is charged with two counts of first degree murder and one count of kidnapping.  Daugherty disappeared Dec. 2 from the Coolidge neighborhood where she lived. There had been speculation at the time that her disappearance was connected to Vann, who was wanted for an armed robbery which occurred in the Deerfield community around the time she went missing. After being on the run for a little over a week, Vann was apprehended in South Carolina and extradited back to Tennessee.  He currently remains jailed in Knox County on a $1 million bond.  
Since her disappearance, numerous man hours have been spent scouring parts of Norris Lake in search of Daugherty.  “The hardest part is that they still haven't found her after all this time,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that she knew it would be in the Lord's time.“  “His time is not our time and I know that; it's just hard right now, getting there – but I know, the Lord is in control.” She recalled with fondness the type of woman her daughter was – how Rhonda “loved people and cared about everyone she met.”  Nancy asked that the public continue to pray for Rhonda to be found, and she extended her own prayer.  
“My prayer for the one responsible for taking Rhonda is that he gets forgiveness, and that he is sorry he did this. I don't want him to go to hell and I know Rhonda wouldn't want him to go to hell – she wasn't that kind of person. His justice is in the Lord's hands, not in mine.” 
A message Nancy Kitts shares with you today
Rhonda Kitts Daugherty would be 50 years old today, November 10. 
No farewell words were spoken. 
No time to say goodbye. 
You were gone before we knew it, 
And only God knows why. 
Our heart still aches in sadness 
And secret tears still flow. 
What it meant to lose you, 
No one will ever know
Love Mom Nancy, Husband Charles and kids, Adam, Danielle and Hannah.  “You're spending your first birthday in heaven with Jesus and your daddy.”   (11/10/2015 - 6:00 AM)



Six long months of hurt, heartache, and mystery

Rhonda Daugherty’s been missing since December 2

“The good part of my life is over.”  With a deep sigh, Nancy Kitts shares from her heavy heart with WLAF.  Since news of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty’s disappearance surfaced on Tuesday night, December 2, there’ve been 184 hard-to-sleep nights for her mother, Nancy, and others.

Rhonda’s mom calls Mothers Day a hard day.  She says, “I’m still a mother, but I don’t have my only child anymore.”  I have grandchildren but no Rhonda.  We still miss her, and home is still very lonely without her.

“She never leaves my mind,” said Nancy Kitts, who sadly points out that she’s slowly come to the realization that she’ll never run into Rhonda, like before, out shopping ever again.  But it’s the prayers, family, and friends that keep her going.

Kitts’ son-in-law Charles Daugherty, whom she says is more like a son, discloses to WLAF that trying to stay busy and keeping some sort of a normal schedule helps.  He’s hoping for encouraging news that Rhonda can be found and given a proper funeral.

Law enforcement officials tell WLAF that the search continues, as weather permits.  Members of the La Follette Rescue Squad and the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department were out searching a couple of days last week.  They spent time on the water at Cedar Creek and did some spotty random checks at different locations around Norris Lake.  One officer adds that the lake is up and boating activity is high making for limited visibility hampering under water cameras and sonar.

Five-weeks after losing Rhonda, Kitts’ husband Boyd died from a long battle with cancer. All the more reason, the past six-months have been so painful. 

Lonnie Vann appeared in Campbell County Criminal Court in early May.  Vann is charged in the kidnapping and murder of the 44-year-old Rhonda Daugherty.  Vann was arrested and charged with crimes relating to her disappearance and what authorities have come to believe was her subsequent murder.  Vann is scheduled to again appear in Judge Shayne Sexton’s Criminal Courtroom on Monday, August 17 at 9:30 a.m.

In the meantime, Vann remains in the Knox County Jail on a $1 million bond.






Vann appears in court; no changes in charges

By SUSAN SHARP

Sporting a Knox County Sheriff’s Office standard issue jumpsuit, Lonnie Vann appeared in Campbell County Criminal Court this morning.

Vann has been charged in the kidnapping and murder of 44 -year -old Rhonda Daugherty. Daugherty, a Campbell County native and Long Hollow resident went missing from her home Dec. 2. Since that time, Vann was arrested and charged with crimes relating to her disappearance and what authorities have come to believe was her subsequent murder. Despite the efforts of the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department and crews from around  the country, Daugherty’s body has yet to be recovered.

Monday morning’s hearing was simply a formality. Given Vann’s ties to the community, it was decided that all matters relating to his case, should be handled by the Claiborne County Criminal Court Clerk’s Office.  As the hearing began, Eighth Judicial District Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton, asked for the Shasta Vanover, Campbell County deputy clerk, to allow a member of the Claiborne County office to assume her seat. Sexton reminded those in attendance this move was in accordance with the change.

Assistant District Attorney General Tom Barclay announced the state would be moving to dismiss the latest indictment against Vann “because of a superseding one.” Barclay told the court it was not a dismissal of any charges, just a matter of paperwork.

“There are no new or amended charges,” Barclay added. Throughout the brief hearing, Vann remained shackled and cuffed as he stood beside his court appointed attorney Dale Potter.

Once the paperwork issue was settled, attorneys in the case asked for a new status hearing date. Sexton said the parties would appear in court again Aug. 17 at 9:30 am.

In the meantime, Vann remains in the Knox County Jail on a $1 million bond.





  Today marks four months in Daugherty disappearance

More than 200 strong have assisted in search

It was four months ago this evening when searchers and hounds first scoured the hills, creeks, and brush areas around the Daugherty home in the Coolidge community.  And so it began.  The search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  Since December 2, 2014, a man has been arrested and charged with her murder even though her body is yet to be found, a grandchild of Rhonda’s has been born, and she lost her father to cancer.  Four short months in a sense, but for a family, community, and searchers, it’s been a lifetime.












Today marks Day 122 in the search for Rhonda Daugherty

Investigators tell WLAF News that some of the best people, in their professions, in the country have been to Campbell County offering assistance and expertise.  Case in point Gene Ralston from Idaho who, along with his wife Sandy, has helped recover upwards of 100 drowning victims for families all across America.  Gene Ralston was on Norris Lake for a couple of weeks searching with sonar, and word is he’s coming back to help again in the hunt for Rhonda.  The Ralstons have participated in the high-profile searches for Laci Peterson and Natalee Holloway.  Along with the Ralstons, more than 200 professionals from across the country, region, every neighboring county, the FBI, TBI, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department, and others have been involved.  The bulk of time spent in the search has been concentrated on Norris Lake in the Heatherly’s Point and Sugar Hollow areas.  Improving weather and the procuring of additional resources will allow the search to pick up its pace in the days ahead.












When Rhonda Daugherty’s family came home on the evening of December 2 and saw that the back door to their home was ajar, and that she had not taken her morning medicine, they knew something was bad wrong.

District Attorney General Jarred Effler explains to WLAF News that everything in this case is active, and that it’s still an on-going investigation much as it is with most cases of this nature.  The General notes that it’s unfortunate that cases such as this one do take time.

The man charged in the disappearance and murder of Rhonda Daugherty is 44-year old Lonnie Vann of Jacksboro.  Vann was arraigned in criminal court February 23 on the additional charges of aggravated robbery, kidnapping and especially aggravated kidnapping. His next court appearance is April 13 when he will have a status hearing regarding all charges. 

He is currently being represented by appointed counsel through the public defender’s office.  For security and safety purposes, Vann is being held in the Knox County Detention Center on a $1 million bond.  (04/02/2015 - 6:00 AM)








Weather hinders search efforts for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty

Mother continues to pray for closure

By Charlotte Underwood

It’s been nearly 100 days since Rhonda Kitts Daugherty went missing from her home on Long Hollow Road on Dec. 2.  Recent search efforts have come to a standstill due to complications from the weather and a lack of resources.  Extreme weather has kept volunteer resources from being available to continue searching the lake by sonar, camera and with divers.

Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Aaron Evans said the search has not been called off, but merely taking a break due to the weather.

“We have not given up on finding her; the weather has affected our accesses to resources, and we plan on having a regrouping soon to get search efforts underway once more,” Evans said.

Since her disappearance, former school teacher Lonnie Lee Vann has been charged with her kidnapping and murder despite the lack of her body being found.  In January and again in February, Vann was indicted by a grand jury for her murder and kidnapping, as well as other crimes.

For about two months now, investigators have concentrated search efforts in the Sugar Hollow and Heatherly’s Point area of Norris Lake using resources from around the nation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and a dive specialist from Iowa are among resources used in the search.  Surrounding counties have been also been instrumental in maintaining search efforts with dive teams, search and rescue teams and officers coming from all around to help.

Rhonda’s mother Nancy Kitts said she has her good days and bad days, but her most heartfelt prayer is still that her daughter’s body is found so that she can be laid to rest.

Kitts said she wanted to once again thank everyone for all the thoughts and prayers over the past three months.

“People have been so good to come and stay with me and it helps; I am so thankful. It doesn’t take the place of the ones who are gone though,” Kitts said.  She said she was not giving up hope that she would be found and asked for continued prayers that God give her the “grace and strength to continue.”(03/05/2015 - 6:00 AM)

Vann arraigned on new charges; next court appearance is April

By Charlotte Underwood

Accused murderer and kidnapper, Lonnie Lee Vann was arraigned in criminal court this morning on the additional charges of aggravated robbery, kidnapping and especially aggravated kidnapping.  His next court appearance will be on April 13 when he will have a status hearing regarding all charges. The new charges stem from a Dec. 5 robbery in Deerfield.  On Feb. 13, Vann was indicted on the new charges by a Campbell County Grand Jury.  In January, he was indicted for the kidnapping and murder of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, who had been missing from her Coolidge area home since Dec. 2, 2014. After Daugherty’s disappearance and the robbery in Deerfield, Vann fled to South Carolina where he was apprehended after committing aggravated robbery in a Myrtle Beach Hotel.  In January, he was extradited to Campbell County to face the more serious charges that are levied against him here.

Vann will also be in court in April regarding his initial charges of sexual misconduct with a minor, which stem from a 2013 incident in which he is alleged to have taken a 13-year-old girl to Coolidge Baptist Church where he attempted to hug and kiss her. The former middle school teacher was indicted by a grand jury on those charges in July of 2014.

Vann is currently being represented by appointed counsel through the public defender’s office.

For security and safety purposes, Vann is being held in the Knox County Detention Center on a $1 million bond.  (02/23/2015 - 2:30 PM)


 




Searchers looking in Heatherly’s Point area for Daugherty

Missing since December 2

By Charlotte Underwood

On Monday, investigators set up a Mobile Command Center at Heatherly’s Point as the search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty continues. It’s been 50 days since the Coolidge woman disappeared from her home.


According to the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department, investigators have been searching the Heatherly’s Point area for the past couple days.  It is about a 20-minute boat ride from Sugar Hollow Boat Dock, where the search had previously been centered.  Investigators say they are still searching all areas of the lake.



Divers, sonar, cameras and all resources continue to be used in the hunt for Daugherty’s body.

Lonnie Vann, who has been indicted for her kidnapping and murder, has a court date set for April 13.

More stories can be found further down the page.  (01/20/2015 - 6:00 AM)

                  Good weather days for Daughtery search-but still no Rhonda.

     It was a rare mild and dry January weekend.  And investigators made the most of it in the hunt for missing Coolidge woman Rhonda Daugherty.  Searchers scoured land and lake from daylight until dusk Saturday and Sunday.  Officials tell WLAF News that the weekend search on Norris Lake was centered on an area of the lake that's about a 20-minute boat ride from the Sugar Hollow Marina, where the search has been focused for weeks.  Sonar, camera, and robot were used.  The R-O-V, an under water robot, from the Carter County, Tennessee, Rescue Squad was used.  The search is in a part of the lake where the depths range from eighty to 150-feet with tree tops around 120-feet.  At these depths, specialized dive teams are required.  More than 70 search team members from around the county and the region took part in Sunday's search effort.  Today begins Day 49 in the hunt for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  Related stories and pictures are found further down this page.(01/19/2015 - 6:00 AM)


By Charlotte Underwood

Accused kidnapper and murderer Lonnie Lee Vann, 44, appeared in Campbell County Criminal Court this morning to be arraigned on those charges. He is accused in the death of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, who has been missing since Dec. 2. Investigators still have not found her body.

Vann’s court appointed public defender pleaded not guilty on his behalf and his next court appearance will be on April 13 for a preliminary hearing.



Vann appeared slightly disheveled as he stood in front of Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton and seemed uncertain about having a public defender appointed or hiring his own lawyer. After he ascertained that he could still hire private council after a public defender was appointed, Vann filled out paperwork and asked for appointed council.

Members of Daugherty’s family filled several pews in the courtroom as they silently watched the man who allegedly kidnapped and killed their loved one.



Vann was indicted by a Campbell County Grand Jury for the kidnapping and murder of Daugherty on Jan. 7. He is charged with two counts of first-degree murder, as well as kidnapping. He is currently being held on a $1 million dollar bond at the Knox County Detention Facility.



Vann, who is a former La Follette Middle school teacher, has been an un-named suspect in the case since he robbed a couple at gunpoint in Deerfield three days after Daugherty’s disappearance in early December.  Shortly after the Deerfield robbery occurred, investigators began concentrating search efforts for Daugherty in the Sugar Hollow area, where Vann has a family member with a house boat and where he reportedly grew up.  After about a week on the run, Vann was apprehended in South Carolina by Myrtle Beach authorities on armed robbery charges.



Vann also has a Feb. 2 court date set for inappropriate conduct with a minor, stemming from a 2013 incident in which he took a 13-year-old student off campus to Coolidge Church and attempted to hug and kiss her. He was indicted on those charges in July of 2014.  (01/12/2015 - 12:30 PM)



Day 42 in the search for Rhonda

     Today marks day 42 in the search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  The 49-year old woman from Coolidge been missing since December 2.  Searchers continue concentrating efforts in the Sugar Hollow area of Norris Lake.  (01/12/2015 - 6:00 AM)

Lonnie Vann extradited back to Campbell County; being held in Knoxville

By Charlotte Underwood

A short two days after he was indicted for the murder and kidnapping of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, former La Follette Middle School teacher Lonnie Lee Vann was extradited to Campbell County and booked on those charges. According to the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department, Vann was extradited from Myrtle Beach, S.C., late Friday evening. Once at the Campbell County Jail, he was booked and processed for two counts of murder and one count of kidnapping. Vann was also charged with armed robbery from a Dec. 5 crime he committed in Deerfield when he held a couple at gunpoint and stole firearms and cash.



Campbell County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Aaron Evans said the extradition was sped along by South Carolina Authorities who “worked with us all so graciously.”

On Wednesday, a Campbell County Grand Jury indicted Vann for these crimes regarding the Dec. 2 disappearance of Daugherty. A massive search effort has been underway for the past six weeks to locate her body, with investigators concentrating in the Sugar Hollow area ofNorris Lake.

Rhonda’s mother Nancy Kitts said it is some small relief that he has been charged with the crime, but no closure will come until Rhonda is found.

“We need to know where she is at – and we need to understand why she was taken.” Nancy Kitts said.

For safety reasons and conflict, Vann will be held at the Knox County Detention Facility.

According to the sheriff’s department, a court date for Vann’s arraignment is not known at this time.

For related stories see further down the page. (01/09/2015 - 10:00 PM)



 Grand Jury indicts Lonnie Vann for murder of Rhonda Daugherty

By Charlotte Underwood

After more than a month of no breaks in the missing person case of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, a Campbell County Grand Jury has handed down an indictment on Lonnie Lee Vann for the kidnapping and murder of the Coolidge woman who has been missing from her home since Dec. 2. Vann, 44, is charged with one count of first-degree murder, as well as kidnapping. His bond has been set at $1 million dollars.

The Campbell County Sheriff's Office, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the 8th Judicial District Attorney General's Office held a press conference at 3 p.m. today at the sheriff’s department to announce the grand jury’s findings on the case.



Vann, who is a former La Follette Middle school teacher, has been an un-named suspect in the case since he robbed a couple at gunpoint in Deerfield three days after Daugherty’s disappearance. Shortly after the Deerfield robbery occurred, investigators began concentrating search efforts for Daugherty in the Sugar Hollow area, where Vann has a family member with a house boat. Much of the investigation seemed to center on that houseboat and in the general vicinity of the boat dock. After about a week on the run, Vann was apprehended in South Carolina by Myrtle Beach authorities on armed robbery charges there. He is currently jailed in the Horry County Detention Center.

After the grand jury handed down the indictment, Criminal Court Judge Shayne Sexton ordered a capias for the arrest of Vann. The warrant has been served on Vann.


According to investigators, Vann will be extradited back to Campbell County on these charges as soon as possible, though no definite time of his return has been announced. Once returned to Tennessee, Vann will be housed at a detention center in a different county, according to officials.

“We have started working on the extradition process, but there is no definite time yet when he will be brought back,” said District Attorney Jared Effler. Effler also said he wanted to thank all of the agencies involved in this case for their “tireless and professional efforts.”

TBI Director Mark Gwyn said investigator’s work was not over and that the TBI was "fully committed to this investigation for the sake of pursuing justice for friends and family of Rhonda Daugherty."

Campbell County Sheriff Robbie Goins said he wanted to thank the many volunteers who have helped in the search for Daugherty.

Goins also asked the public to respect the Daugherty family's privacy now that Vann has been charged in her killing.

Vann has a February 2 court appearance scheduled in Campbell County on sexual misconduct charges with a minor, stemming from a 2013 incident in which he allegedly took a 13-year-old off campus and to Coolidge Baptist Church where he touched her inappropriately. Vann was indicted on those charges in July of 2014. It is unknown at this time if that court date still stands.

According to the District Attorney and investigators, the case is ongoing as searchers continue to look for Daugherty. A $10,000 reward remains in effect.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911, 423-562-7446 or 1-800-TBI FIND.  (01/07/2015)

Father of missing woman dies from battle with cancer; family prays for search to continue

By Charlotte Underwood

After spending the last five weeks of his life without his daughter, Boyd Wayne Kitts, 71, passed away yesterday, Jan. 6, from a long-term battle with cancer.



Family and friends grieve his loss, and continue to hope for their loved one Rhonda Kitts Daugherty to be found. She has been missing since Dec. 2.

Rhonda’s mother Nancy Kitts said the past month had been hard on her husband and the disappearance of their only child had taken its toll.

“He missed her so much; he would cry for her and ask for her,” Nancy said, adding that Rhonda had been close with both her and her father.

“She was just such a blessing to have around and she helped me so much; I was leaning on her through his sickness I guess and not knowing where she is at is killing us.”

Nancy described Rhonda and her three children as her and her husband’s pride and joy.

She said the family is leaning on prayers and the hope that Rhonda will be found.

“We want her to stay on everyone’s mind until something gives and she is found. Someone out there knows something or has seen something and we just ask that person to please help us find Rhonda.”

There is still a $10,000 reward offered in this case and anyone with information is asked to call 911 or to call the sheriff’s department at 423-562-7446.

Cross-Smith Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be given online at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com. (01/07/2015)



Divers continue to search Sugar Hollow; debris & cold weather making it difficult

By Charlotte Underwood

Divers continue to search the Sugar Hollow area and Cedar Creek area of Norris Lake for missing woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty who has been gone for over a month now. Houseboat cables and other debris such as televisions and grills mar the clarity of the water. The cold water requires the majority of the divers to wear what is called “dry suits”, which are more suitable to the winter temperatures.

According to the sheriff’s department, divers and dogs have searched the lake as far away asAnderson County and plan to continue to search.  For the past couple of weeks, the search has continued to focus on Sugar Hollow, with multiple agencies converging on the boat dock and taking to the waters each day.

Divers even reported that an entire houseboat was sunk in Sugar Hollow, along with various parts of cars and trucks. Otherwise, the water is clear, partially thanks to the cold temperatures and also due to a certain type of mussel that has been introduced to the lake by northern tourists visiting the area.

According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency, the Zebra Mussel is an invasive species that is becoming more of a nuisance in Tennessee waterways. The tiny organism is reproducing and attaching themselves to anything underwater. The mussels are not native toTennessee, or the United States, but continue to spread to lakes and rivers.

The mussels will attach themselves to boats, pipes, docks and one mussel can produce up to a million offspring in a year.  Divers have reported the mussels are attached to the underwater houseboat cables.

Investigators report that logs and other underwater debris in the area are covered with the tiny mussels.

Zebra mussels also destroy the ecosystem by eating microscopic particles in the water, which is why the water becomes clearer once zebra mussels begin to grow in number.

According to a local fishing guide, the mussel can live out of water for days and is brought to the area by tourist’s boats from the Great Lakes.  The Zebra Mussel can be found in the Sugar Hollow, Deerfield, Springs Dock and Shanghai areas of the lake, but is not as wide-spread when you head towards the Norris Dam or towards Flat Hollow. They have become more prevalent over the past four years.  (01/06/2015 - 6:00 AM)

Sorting through facts, fiction, and rumors is a challenge

The search for Rhonda Daugherty resumes at daybreak

     "They've found something at Sugar Hollow."  That's what the caller reported to us late Friday afternoon.  WLAF's Charlotte Underwood immediately hustled over to the Sugar Hollow area of Norris Lake only to meet searchers calling it a day, as darkness was settling-in, and confirm that it was just a rumor. 





WLAF has done its best to bring you the latest in the hunt for Rhonda Daugherty who went missing more than a month ago, and that includes gathering facts, which have been few and far between for all concerned, and sorting through the fiction and rumors. 

 


As Week Six begins, this will be the most challenging week for investigators, searchers, and especially divers where the weather is concerned.  A four, possibly five, day stretch of subfreezing temperatures is ahead including single-digit readings Wednesday night into Thursday.  (01/05/2015 - 6:00 AM - CHARLOTTE UNDERWOOD PIX)



Search continues by boat, land and air for missing woman

By Charlotte Underwood

New Year’s Day came and went without any new information in the case of missing Coolidge woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty. The 49-year-old vanished from her home on Long Hollow Road on Dec. 2. Investigators and searchers continued to look in the Sugar Hollow area of Norris Lake yesterday and plan to continue the search today on water and land. The search seems to be concentrated from the Cedar Creek area back into Sugar Hollow.  Divers from Blount County and the La Follette Rescue Squad will be busy using underwater cameras and sonar in an attempt to locate Daugherty or a clue.

Yesterday, searchers moved house boats around in order to make searching under the water easier due to the amount of anchoring cables.  Divers report a vast amount of debris under the water that also makes the search more difficult.  Law enforcement has already searched the majority of the houseboats in the Sugar Hollow area.

Investigators have yet to name a suspect in the missing person’s case, but public opinion remains that armed robbery suspect Lonnie Vann could be a person of interest. Vann robbed a couple at gunpoint in Deerfield three days after Daugherty disappeared.  After the Dec. 5 robbery, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation quickly added Vann their top ten most wanted list.

He also has a family member who owns a house boat in the area that the search is concentrated. Vann was later apprehended in South Carolina, after he robbed a couple down there as well and was arrested at a traffic check point. Vann, a former La Follette Middle School teacher, has an early February court date in Campbell County regarding a sexual misconduct charge with a minor. He also has a February 20 court date in South Carolina for the robbery he committed in the Myrtle Beach area.

According to an article in the Christian Journal Leader, Vann had allegedly purchased duct tape, rope, and boots at the Wal-Mart in Clinton around the time of Daugherty’s disappearance. The Campbell County Sheriff’s Department said they could not comment on whether or not this is true.

Citizens on social media sites say they wish the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies involved in the case would say concretely if there is a suspect. People report locking their doors more and checking dark parking lots due to the uneasiness of not knowing whether there is a suspect and whether or not that suspect is currently locked up.

According to Campbell County Sheriff Robbie Goins, searchers will continue to use every resource available to them and will not give up on finding Daugherty.

“The searchers are tired but they are not giving up. They had some rest over the holidays and are motivated by the family’s hope and by finding Rhonda,” Goins said.

A $10,000 reward remains active in this case. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department at 423-562-7446.(01/02/2015 - 6:00 AM)

New month.  New year.  Daugherty search continues.

     As the calendar turns to 2015, Day 31 in the search for a missing Campbell Countywoman continues.  There are no new developments to report this morning in the hunt for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  The 49-year old mother and grandmother was last seen at her home on December 2 and as investigators describe, she just “vanished.”  Pictures and more stories are found further down this page.(01/01/2015 - 6:00 AM)

Family frustrated by lack of answers; prays for searchers to not give up

By Charlotte Underwood

A month without answers is taking its toll on family members and searchers alike in the case of missing Coolidge woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty. The family continues to pray for the return of their loved one and answers in what has become a baffling mystery in our county.

Daugherty’s mother Nancy Kitts continues to make pleas for the return of her daughter and information as to what happened on Dec. 2 when Rhonda disappeared.



“She was the type of person that would make you smile. She would help anyone and was just a joy to be around. She is missed so much and we need her back home,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that she could see no reason why someone would take her daughter.

“She was a homebody –very family dedicated and church oriented; I just can’t understand why this has happened.”

Frustrated and wearing thin by a lack of answers in the case, Nancy said she will not give up hope that searchers will find Rhonda and bring her home.

“Even if it’s not good news; we need to know, we need to have her back and we need to know what happened to her and why,” Nancy said, adding that she knew in her heart that Rhonda did not leave of her own free will on Tuesday, Dec. 2.

Nancy Kitts said the last time she spoke to her daughter was the day before she disappeared when Rhonda was visiting her at their Pleasant Ridge home.

“She was always good to come help me and check on her father who has been sick and she came and spent several hours with us that Monday,” Kitts said. She also said that her daughter seemed to be her normal self.

“Rhonda wasn’t depressed, she wasn’t on the verge of a nervous breakdown – there was nothing out of the ordinary.”

Daugherty usually called to check in with her mom by noon each day and when Nancy had not heard from her by 2:30, she began calling her.



“I kept calling her. Around dusky-dark, her husband came home and he called me right away to see if she was here. He said he had looked everywhere and that the back door to the house had been partially open when he came home,” Nancy Kitts said, adding that was not like her daughter at all.

There was no sign of forced entry or a struggle inside the home. All of Daugherty’s belongings were left at the home and so was her car. When Rhonda’s husband told Nancythat the door was open and that Rhonda’s car and belongings were still at home, she said her heart dropped.

“I knew something had happened to her. She was the type of woman who always kept her door locked. Whoever came to that back door had to have been someone she knew or she would not have opened that door,” Nancy said.

“I wake up every day and think that we will have an answer and that she will be found today.”

On behalf of the family, Nancy said she wanted to thank everyone for all they have done and asked that the search continue and that Rhonda stay at the forefront of people’s thoughts.

Investigators have been very reluctant to provide information about the case and whether or not there is a connection between Daugherty’s disappearance and the arrest of Lonnie Lee Vann, who after robbing a couple at gunpoint in Deerfield on Dec. 5, was added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Top Ten Most Wanted list and eventually apprehended in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  He has a February 20 court date scheduled in HorryCounty for armed robbery crimes he committed down there.

According to the incident report, when Vann robbed the Deerfield couple, he told them he would not harm them, but that he needed money because he was “in big trouble.”

TBI agents, sheriff’s department deputies, rescue squad members and divers continue to focus the search in the Sugar Hollow area of Norris Lake, which is where Vann has family and was previously known to frequent. Sugar Hollow is about three to four miles away from Daugherty’s home on Long Hollow Road. Investigators began looking in the Sugar Hollow area several weeks ago and were spotted searching houseboats with dogs.

The question on everyone’s mind is why is the search concentrated there?  Law enforcement is certainly not saying anything.

A $10,000 reward is still active in this case and anyone with information is asked to please call the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 562-7446. (12/21/2014 - 6:00 AM)

The search for Daugherty began four-weeks ago today

     There are no new developments to report in the search for missing Campbell Countian Rhonda Kitts Daugherty this morning.  Today marks the 29th day of searching which began four-weeks ago this evening.  The 49-year old woman was last seen on Tuesday morning, December 2, at her home on Long Hollow Road in Coolidge. 




Teams have been searching for her ever since her husband returned from work that evening and discovered she was missing.  A $10,000 reward is being offered, and Sheriff Robbie Goins asks that if you have any information to please call him at 423.562.7446.  More stories and pictures of the Rhonda Daugherty case are found further down this page.(12/30/14 - 6:00 AM)

Today begins Day 28 in the hunt for missing Coolidge woman

     About a square mile of Norris Lake.  In water 30 to 50-feet deep.  Through rain and cold.  After investigators searched Saturday and Sunday at Sugar Hollow Marina and surrounding area, still no Rhonda.  Authorities continue moving forward in the search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty this morning on Day 28.  Divers, camera, and sonar are all being used to cover what is described by officials as a “large area.”  Sheriff Robbie Goins tells WLAF that he and every member of his department, and other agencies as well, believe in their hearts everyday that they will find her.  More stories and pictures are found further down this page.(12/29/2014 - 6:00 AM)

Family says no money needed; just searchers

The family of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty wants to say a big thank you to everyone who has been praying and searching for their loved one. They also wanted to let everyone know that they don’t want or need money, but rather people to continue searching and praying for Rhonda.

“Everyone has been so wonderful through all this and we appreciate it so much; but we don’t need money raised, we just need people to search and keep praying until she is found,” said Rhonda’s mother Nancy Kitts. The family also wanted to clarify that there are currently several outdoor “tournaments” taking place to raise funds and that the family is not associated with these events. A fishing tournament and a coon hunting tournament have both been organized.

“We would like the tournaments to be stopped because we have not asked anyone to do anything to raise any money – we just want people to search for Rhonda. It’s not that we don’t deeply appreciate what everyone is doing and trying to do; but we really don’t need money; just Rhonda.”  (12/26/2014 - 2:00 PM)

Day 25.  Investigators continue trying to solve Daugherty's disappearance.

     Christmas has come and gone.  Still no Rhonda.  The emotional, physical, and mental grind continues to weigh heavily on her family, community, and investigative team as the search goes on for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  It's Day 25.  Investigators, working tirelessly, going on a month, are back looking for the 49-year old Daugherty this morning still concentrating efforts on Norris Lake at Sugar Hollow Marina.  On the morning of December 2, investigators say she just vanished from her hilltop home at Coolidge.  Daugherty's mother, Nancy Kitts, made this plea to WLAF viewers, listeners, and followers last Tuesday -CLICK HERE.  More stories and pictures surrounding Rhonda Daugherty are found further down this page.  (12/26/2014 - 6:00 AM)

Daugherty's mother makes plea

     Today, during the noon hour, Nancy Kitts, the mother of missing Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, made a plea outside her Pleasant Ridge home for the return of her daughter or information that could lead to her whereabouts. CLICK HERE to view Kitts' comments.  The Coolidge woman disappeared from her home on Long Hollow Road on Dec. 2. Searchers and investigators continue to look for the missing woman. There is a $10,000 reward in this case. Anyone with information is asked to please call 911 or the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 562-7446. (12/23/2014 - 5:00 PM)





Family seeks answers in Daugherty case

Today marks Week Three – Search Day 22

By Charlotte Underwood

All one Campbell County family wants for Christmas is the return of their loved one and maybe some answers as to what happened.

With the search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty in week number three, this holiday season is filled with emptiness and questions for her family members. Her mother, Nancy Kitts, said she has not given up hope of searchers finding her daughter and that she is still praying for a Christmas miracle.



“I am hoping and praying that whoever did this will break down and tell the truth. I want this person to know how empty our lives and our hearts have become.  We need to know where she is at; we need closure. Please find it in your heart to help us get her back and if it’s not good, then tell us where we can find her so we can have closure.”

It’s the waiting and not knowing that is so hard. It’s all they can think about.

“Every time the phone rings I hope it’s about her; I believe it will be the call I have been waiting on.  It’s hard on all of us,” Nancy said, adding that her son-in-law, Rhonda’s husband was devastated.

“He won’t eat, he won’t sleep; it has simply destroyed him.”  Rhonda’s father, who is terminally ill, is devastated as well and often gets distraught over his missing daughter. Through the devastation, the family continues to pray and search for answers.

“The Lord is working on this and all the prayers help; we just want Rhonda back,” Nancysaid.  She also said she wants to keep it fresh on people’s minds to keep the hope, prayers and search alive.

Daugherty, 49, went missing on Dec. 2 from her home on Long Hollow Road. Her parents live about a mile and a half away. Nancy described her daughter as friendly, outgoing and always with a smile for others. She also described her as family oriented very active in their lives.

“I have a wonderful daughter; until I hear otherwise, I will continue to believe she is okay.”

Rhonda is her only daughter. When she went missing, her own daughter was expecting her first child.

“She was so looking forward to the birth of that grandchild.  She did not leave voluntarily, someone is responsible,” Nancy said, adding that she knew investigators had been looking in the Sugar Hollow vicinity of Norris Lake for her daughter or clues that could lead to her.

Divers and various search and rescue teams from Campbell and surrounding counties have been searching alongside deputies and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation agents for the past week and a half.

“I want them to search everywhere. I have to keep believing and trusting in the Lord that something will give and we will find her.”

She also wants to say a big thank you to the High Knob Church for all that they have done for the family, as well as a thank you to all the churches and everyone in the community praying and searching.

She gave one final plea to anyone who may have knowledge of her daughter’s whereabouts or what happened to her.

“If anyone has any information that could help us, please come forward – we miss her so much and we need help finding her- and to whoever is responsible, I pray they cannot eat or sleep until they tell what they know- our house is so empty without her; please help us bring her home.”

Anyone with information is asked to please call 911 or the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 562-7446.  More stories and pictures surrounding Rhonda Kitts Daugherty are found further down this page.  (12/23/2014 - 6:00 AM)                      

Searchers continue to look for Daugherty over the weekend

By Charlotte Underwood

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation agents, Campbell County Sheriff’s Detectives and members of Knox County and La Follette Rescue Squads continued to search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty over the weekend. The search still appears to be concentrated in the Sugar Hollow vicinity of Norris Lake, with around a dozen officials manning three boats on Saturday.  Sunday saw the Anderson and Campbell County Sheriff’s Departments searching, along with the TBI.



According to witnesses, the search seemed to begin in the area over a week ago, when law enforcement officials were spotted searching house boats with dogs.

A Knoxville Search and Rescue boat equipped with sonar went back and forth on the lake on Saturday, attempting to get what law enforcement call at “hit” on an object under the water.



According to Campbell County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Aaron Evans, several types of sonar have been used in the search for Daugherty. The lake around the Sugar Hollow area is quite “polluted” with house boat cables, and lots of other debris such as grills and other garbage.

Divers will possibly continue with the search this week.

Investigators have also been searching along the bank and from the air in efforts to locate her.



Searchers say they will continue to look for Daugherty.  Local churches and community members also vow to keep praying for the missing woman and her family.  Daugherty has been missing since Dec. 2, when she disappeared from her home on Long Hollow Road at Coolidge.

A $10,000 reward is being offered and anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at 423.562.7446.  (12/22/2014 - 6:00 AM)







Vann's bond set in some S.C. charges, denied bond on other; waives extradition

By Charlotte Underwood

Accused armed robber Lonnie Lee Vann, 44, has waived extradition and had his bond set at $110,000 in South Carolina, where he is currently being held in the Horry County Jail. However, he was denied bond on one particular charge in South Carolina, which will essentially keep him there until his February 20 court date scheduled at the Horry CountyJudicial Center.



Vann, who had been wanted in connection to an armed robbery which occurred in the Deerfield community on Dec. 5, also committed armed robbery in Myrtle Beach at a Marriott Hotel. In South Carolina, Vann is charged with armed robbery, burglary in the first, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, weapons law violation and being a fugitive from justice for his crimes in Tennessee. He was denied bond for the burglary in the first charge due to the severity of the crime, according to Horry County Sheriff’s Public Information Officer Jeff Benton.

“He was given the $110,000 cash bond on the other charges, but because they denied him bond on the burglary in the first, it is technically like his bond was denied,” Benton said, going on to further explain that Vann would not be extradited to Tennessee until he either made bond or his charges in South Carolina are disposed of via a trial or hearing.

Vann had initially signed an extradition waiver at the Myrtle Beach Police Department, but due to it not being notarized, Vann had to sign an official waiver in front of a notary of the public. According to Benton, that did not occur until around 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 18.

Vann, a former middle school teacher has a February 2 hearing in Campbell County Criminal Court regarding sexual misconduct charges stemming from a 2013 incident in which he is accused of touching a 13-year-old girl inappropriately.

According to the Horry County Sheriff’s Department, it is up to the Campbell County District Attorney and sheriff’s department to contact South Carolina authorities and make arrangements to come pick Vann up and transport him to Campbell County for that court date, just as it is Horry County officials responsibility to make transportation arrangements to get him back for his Feb. 20 court date.

Vann is charged with two-counts of armed robbery for the Dec. 5 Deerfield incident.  If penalized to the max, he could face up to 30 years in prison for his armed robbery crimes in Campbell County, and he could face up to life in prison for the South Carolina charge.

Investigators have yet to publically acknowledge a connection between Vann and missingCampbell County woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, who has been missing since Dec. 2.(12/19/2014 - 6:00 AM)



Day 18 of search for missing woman; still nothing new to report

Day 18 of the search for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty and still nothing new to report in what has become one of Campbell County’s biggest mysteries.

The search was concentrated once again in the Sugar Hollow vicinity yesterday.  Divers fromCampbell County and the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department spent the day in the waters of Norris Lake once more, but had nothing new to report by day’s end. According to officials, water visibility remains clear, but house boat cables still hinder the divers.

The search continues this morning in the same area, with searchers vowing not to give up.

A $10,000 reward is being offered and anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 562-7446.(12/19/2014 - 6:00 AM)




By Charlotte Underwood

There is still nothing new in the case of missing Coolidge woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty. Around 15 to 20 law enforcement officials searched all day in the Sugar Hollow vicinity ofNorris Lake yesterday and plan to continue the search today.  A two-member dive team from the Knox County Sheriff Special Operations Unit participated in the search.  According to officials close to the scene, the water temperature is 48-degrees and visibility under the water is good, but there is still no sign or clues in Daugherty’s disappearance.  Massive amounts of underwater cables anchoring the houseboats in the area are making it difficult on divers.  A brief bit of excitement was when a gun was sighted underwater, but it turned out to be an air rifle and was not relevant.


No connection between former La Follette Middle School teacher Lonnie Vann and Daugherty has been announced by law enforcement.  Vann has a February court date for inappropriate conduct with a student and is currently being held in South Carolina on criminal charges before he will be extradited back to Campbell County for allegedly committing a Dec. 6 armed robbery in Deerfield.

The spirit among investigators, though not verbally validated, is that there is a connection in the two cases.  A WLAF source close to the investigation said the search for Daugherty had been concentrated in the Sugar Hollow area because that is near where Vann grew up and that he also had a family member in the area with a house boat that he had frequented.



Campbell County Sheriff Robbie Goins said they will not give up the search and will do whatever it takes to find her.  According to Goins, there has never been a body put into the lake or a drowning that did not result in the recovery of the person.


“We will continue to search and do whatever it takes,” Goins said.




A $10,000 reward is being offered and anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 562-7446.(12/18/2014 - 6:00 AM)



Search for Daugherty continues by land, air and boat

Missing for two-weeks now, the search for Rhonda Daugherty continues on the lake today in the Sugar Hollow vicinity. Law enforcement was searching in that area yesterday as well. A Knox County Special Operations unit, believed to be a dive team, was seen driving through town and later parked in the Sugar Hollow parking lot. According to officials the search will continue by boat, land and air.

According to reports, Daugherty was last seen by her husband Charles on Dec. 2. When he returned home from work, she was gone and the door to their home was open.

Law enforcement, community members and other volunteers have searched daily for the 49-year-old Coolidge woman.

If you have any information on where Rhonda Daugherty may be you’re asked to call 911 or the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 562-7446. There is a $10,000 reward in this case. (12/17/2014 - 12:30 PM)

Search continues for missing Coolidge woman

By Charlotte Underwood

No new details have emerged in the case of the missing Coolidge woman Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, who has been missing since Dec. 2.  Those in the Sugar Hollow area may have noticed law enforcement and search teams checking the lake yesterday as the search continues for the missing 49-year old woman who seems to have vanished without a trace.  According to the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department, they will continue to search any and all areas in reference to Rhonda and no areas are off limit.

For two weeks and a day now, officers and members of the community have been searching tirelessly.  Local churches are offering up prayer and missing posters can be seen all over the county, but still no word on her whereabouts and no new leads to follow.



The community has been abuzz with suspicion of a connection between Daugherty’s case and that of Lonnie Vann, who was arrested on Friday in Myrtle Beach in connection with an armed robbery that occurred in the Deerfield community on Dec. 6.  Vann is currently being held in South Carolina on charges for crimes he committed there as well as a fugitive from justice warrant regarding the robbery he allegedly committed here in Campbell County.

No connection between the two cases has been officially acknowledged by law enforcement. According to officials, both cases are still under open and active investigation.  Related stories and pictures are found further down this page.  (12/17/2014 - 6:00 AM)





Vann remains in a S.C. jail.  Daugherty’s still missing after two weeks.

     There’s nothing new to report this morning in the two stories that may or may not be connected surrounding  Campbell Countians Lonnie Vann and Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  The 44-year old Vann is yet to be brought back to Campbell County from a South Carolina jail.  He is wanted on multiple charges in South Carolina and Tennessee and was caught by Myrtle Beach Police last Friday night after being on the run for a week after fleeing an armed robbery scene at Deerfield.  Daugherty, age 49, has been missing for two weeks as of today when she was last seen at her home in the Coolidge community.  Authorities say she just “vanished.”  No one involved in the investigation is willing to say  the two disturbing events are connected even though Vann and Daugherty knew each other and attended the same church, Coolidge First Baptist Church.  More related stories and pictures are further down this page.(12/16/2014 - 6:00 AM)



King’s memory lives on through his championship team



     The late Coach Vic King’s Christian Academy Warriors claimed the county crown.  Again.  For a second-straight season, King’s Warriors take the title.  This time, they won it without their coach, who passed away last month after a brief battle with cancer. 



CACC defeated the Wynn Bulldogs to claim the small division championship.(12/16/2014 - 6:00 AM)





Vann held on fugitive from justice warrant; new charges filed by S.C. authorities

By Charlotte Underwood

New charges were filed against former teacher Lonnie Lee Vann, 44, who is currently being held on a fugitive from justice warrant in South Carolina until he can be extradited back to Tennessee, according to Myrtle Beach Police. Vann is being held in South Carolina by law enforcement on charges of armed robbery, burglary, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, weapons law violation and being a fugitive from justice. Vann garnered these additional charges after Myrtle Beach authorities connected him to an armed robbery at a Marriott Hotel that occurred on Dec. 10. According to the incident report, Vann followed two people onto an elevator at the hotel. He then followed them off the elevator and to their room, appearing to be on the cell phone. When they opened their room, Vann pushed them in and then demanded their wallets, brandishing a black firearm. The victim managed to remove most of his belongings from his wallet without Vann seeing before handing it over to him. Vann then fled the scene. He was later picked up by Myrtle Beach Police who had the description of his Chevy Captiva as being driven by a fugitive from justice wanted by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

Vann is being held in the Myrtle Beach Jail without bond until he has a hearing before a judge, according to Joey Crosby, Myrtle Beach Police Department’s Public Information Officer.

Crosby said after the hearing regarding the crimes Vann committed in South Carolina, Vann could be brought back to Tennessee fairly quickly if he waived extradition. If he however, does not waive extradition, there will be a separate hearing regarding that.

After becoming a suspect in an armed robbery which occurred in Deerfield on Dec. 6, Vann spent a little over a week on the run and on the TBI’s top ten most wanted list. He was apprehended in South Carolina by Myrtle Beach Police on Highway 501 after they recognized him and the cream-colored Chevy Captiva he was last reported driving. Vann was taken into custody around 7 p.m. Friday night.

In July, Vann was indicted by a grand jury for inappropriate conduct with a student after he was charged with solicitation of a minor, sexual battery by an authority figure, tampering with evidence and assault. 

Vann taught at La Follette Middle School and was placed on suspension without pay in October 2013 after allegations of the inappropriate conduct came to light.

According to the TBI, on Oct. 22, Vann took a 13-year-old student off school property to Coolidge First Baptist Church. While in the building, Vann allegedly hugged the female student and tried to kiss her, both without consent.

Vann also allegedly tampered with evidence by altering images on a recording device at the church. Vann turned himself into the Campbell County Sheriff. He was later released on $10,000 bond. He has a February court date in Campbell County Criminal Court regarding the inappropriate misconduct charges. (12/15/2014 - 2:30 PM)



Family, fellow church members, and friends scoured Coolidge Saturday looking for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty



Area churches lift up special prayers for Rhonda

     Lonnie Vann’s been captured (story is further down this page).  Authorities tell WLAF News that it may be a while before he is brought back to the county jail at Jacksboro.  Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Police spotted the 44-year old man from Jacksboro on Friday night and took him into custody.  Vann is wanted in connection to an armed robbery on December 5 at Deerfield.  But what about Rhonda Kitts Daugherty? 



A prayer was lifted up for Rhonda Duagherty Sunday morning at area churches.  Among them was First Baptist Church of La Follette.

Area churches lifted up prayers for Rhonda and her family on Sunday morning.  Today marks Day 13 in the search for the woman who police say “vanished” on Tuesday, December 2, from her hilltop home at Coolidge. 



Coolidge First Baptist Church serves as the command post in the hunt for Rhonda



The sheriff’s department and the rescue squad led the search for Daugherty on Saturday morning.

Daugherty’s family, fellow church members from Coolidge First Baptist Church, and neighbors, with support from the sheriff's department and the rescue squad, searched for her on Saturday.  Still no Rhonda.  The search continues this morning. (12/15/2014 - 6:00 AM)





Lonnie Vann arrested in South Carolina

By Charlotte Underwood

After a little over a week on the run and on the TBI’s top ten most wanted list, armed robbery suspect Lonnie Lee Vann, 44, was apprehended in South Carolina by Myrtle Beach Police. Vann was picked up by Myrtle Beach authorities after they recognized him and the cream-colored Chevy Captiva he had last been seen driving in Campbell County. Vann was taken into custody around 7 p.m. last night (Friday). It is unknown at this time how long Vann will be held in South Carolina. According to the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department, “there are a lot of logistics that have to be worked out, before he is extradited back to Campbell County.”




According to Campbell County Sheriff Robbie Goins, it was a multi-agency and state law enforcement cooperation that led to Vann’s arrest.

“Today we can announce, along with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, that Campbell County armed robbery suspect Lonnie Lee Vann was taken into custody without incident and is being held at this time in connection with an armed robbery that occurred at a residence in the Deerfield Community,” Goins said in a press release.

Despite Vann’s arrest, there is no new evidence in the missing person case of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, who has been missing since Dec. 2. For more than a week now, 10-20 officers have been searching hourly for the missing 49-year old Coolidge woman.  No connection between the two cases has been officially acknowledged by law enforcement, though rumors and suspicions have been running rampant in the community. According to law enforcement, both cases are still under open and active investigation.

A former Campbell County teacher, Vann was wanted in connection to an armed robbery which occurred around 3:45 p.m. on Dec. 6 in the Deerfield Resort Community. On the day of the robbery, sources told WLAF that Vann was a very strong person of interest in connection with the robbery, which occurred at the residence of Jim Fields.  By the end of the day, Vann had been added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations top ten most wanted list. According to the police report, Vann was at the residence to speak to Fields about working on a website for his business.  Fields told deputies he had bent over to pick something up off the floor and when he looked up, Vann had a gun in his hand. Vann then demanded they open their safe. He stole three handguns as well as $900 in cash before leaving in a cream-colored 2013 Chevrolet Captiva, which Vann had rented on Dec. 3 from La Follette Enterprise. Vann zip-tied Fields and his wife to the stair railing and told them to wait at least 30 minutes before calling the police.  Jim Fields was able to free himself in about five minutes and called the police. The vehicle Vann left in has a Maryland tag with the numbers 2BC-6411. The case was then turned over to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

In July, Vann was indicted by a grand jury for inappropriate conduct with a student after he was charged with solicitation of a minor, sexual battery by an authority figure, tampering with evidence and assault. 

Vann taught at La Follette Middle School and was placed on suspension without pay in October 2013 after allegations of the inappropriate conduct came to light.

In November of 2013, the case was handed over to the District Attorney General and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. According to the TBI, on Oct. 22, Vann took a 13-year-old student off school property to Coolidge First Baptist Church. While in the building, Vann allegedly hugged the female student and tried to kiss her, both without consent.

Vann also allegedly tampered with evidence by altering images on a recording device at the church. Vann turned himself into the Campbell County Sheriff. He was later released on $10,000 bond. He has a February court date in Campbell County Criminal Court regarding the inappropriate misconduct charges. (12/13/2014 - 1:00 PM)





Vann’s been on the run a week.  Daugherty’s search is now on day 10.

No matter where you go.  No matter the company.  Talk soon turns to the bizarre stories that developed here in Campbell County last week.  On Tuesday, December 2, 49-year old Rhonda Kitts Daugherty went missing from her hill top home at Coolidge.  Police say she just vanished.  Though reward money for her safe return doubled to $10,000 on Thursday afternoon, she is still missing, and clues are few and far between. 

As the WLAF crew was setting up to broadcast the Campbell basketball games at Corryton last Friday is when word came in that 44-year old Lonnie Vann had just robbed a couple at gunpoint at their Deerfield home.  Within hours, the like-able Vann, who was already free on bond from a charge involving his improper association with a student when he was a teacher at La Follette Middle School, was placed on the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Top Ten Most Wanted List.  One-week later, Vann remains on the run and on the wanted list.  More stories and pictures related to this story are found further down this page.  (12/12/2014 - 6:00 AM)

Dollars doubled for Daugherty’s safe return

     The reward for any information regarding the disappearance of missing La Follette woman Rhonda Daugherty has been doubled.  It’s been increased to $10,000.00.(12/11/2104 - 3:00 PM)

No changes in the missing person search and the manhunt

     You want to know.  And so do we.  But there is nothing new to report to you this morning in the case of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  She went missing on Tuesday, December 2.  Investigators say she just vanished from her Coolidge home.  Word on the other case, that many say is connected, remains the same, and that is the case of Lonnie Vann, who is wanted in connection with a December 5 armed robbery of a Deerfield community family.  Vann has not been seen since the robbery.  Pictures and more stories surrounding these two disturbing events are found further down this page.  (12/11/2014 - 6:00 AM)



A request from the sheriff

     The sheriff’s office, TBI, and others are continually and feverishly working around the clock and have dedicated all resources available to the search and safe return of Rhonda Daugherty. No boundaries exist, no resource is turned away, and no tip is dismissed into the search and safe return of Rhonda.  We ask every Campbell County citizen, every person in our area, and every person able to read this message.  Rhonda, her family, and everyone involved need all of our prayers and continued support.  We ask all of you, regardless of your faith, beliefs, and denomination to please pray, pray, and pray specifically for Rhonda, her safe return, and pray that the hands of the investigators involved are blessed and favored –Sheriff Robbie K. Goins.  (12/10/2014 - 3:00 PM)



Exhausting search for Daugherty continues

     So far, everyday’s hope for finding Rhonda Kitts Daugherty safe and alive has been dashed by day’s end.  For more than a week now, 10-20 officers have been searching hourly for the missing 49-year old Coolidge woman.  Authorities say she just “vanished” last Tuesday, and so far, there are no solid tips or leads in the case.  More stories on Daugherty are found further down this page. (12/10/2014 - 6:00 AM)

Vann wanted by TBI in connection with robbery; police report details released

Vann remains on the loose this morning

By Charlotte Underwood

Former Campbell County teacher Lonnie Vann, 44, of Jacksboro, is still wanted in connection to an armed robbery which occurred around 3:45 p.m. on Dec. 6 in the Deerfield Resort Community. On the day of the robbery, sources told WLAF that Vann was a very strong person of interest in connection with the robbery, which occurred at the residence of Jim Fields.  By the end of the day, Vann had been added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations top ten most wanted list. According to the police report, Vann was at the residence to speak to Fields about working on a website for his business.  Fields told deputies he had bent over to pick something up off the floor and when he looked up, Vann had a gun in his hand. Vann then demanded they open their safe. He stole three handguns as well as $900 in cash before leaving in a cream-colored 2013 Chevrolet Captiva, which Vann had rented on Dec. 3 from La Follette Enterprise. Vann zip-tied Fields and his wife to the stair railing and told them to wait at least 30 minutes before calling the police.  Jim Fields was able to free himself in about five minutes and called the police. The vehicle Vann left in has aMaryland tag with the numbers 2BC-6411. The case has been turned over to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. According to law enforcement, Vann is considered armed and dangerous and is actively being sought for questioning regarding the armed robbery. Anyone who has seen him or has any information to his whereabouts is asked to contact the TBI at 1-800-824-3463, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department at 423-562-7446 or 911. Vann’s home was also searched in connection with the robbery. Vann has brown hair and a goatee and is somewhat stocky of build. He was last seen driving the cream colored Chevy Captiva.




In July, Vann was indicted by a grand jury for inappropriate conduct with a student after he was charged with solicitation of a minor, sexual battery by an authority figure, tampering with evidence and assault. 

Vann taught at La Follette Middle School and was placed on suspension without pay in October 2013 after allegations of the inappropriate conduct came to light.

In November of 2013, the case was handed over to the District Attorney General and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. According to the TBI, on Oct. 22, Vann took a 13-year-old student off school property to Coolidge First Baptist Church. While in the building, Vann allegedly hugged the female student and tried to kiss her, both without consent.

Vann also allegedly tampered with evidence by altering images on a recording device at the church. Vann turned himself into the Campbell County Sheriff. He was later released on $10,000 bond. He has a February court date in Campbell County Criminal Court regarding the inappropriate misconduct charges.  (12/10/2014 - 6:00 AM)



Day Seven.  Still no Rhonda.

     Investigators are just looking for a break.  Big.  Little. No matter the size.  Just one break.  And that one break may be all they need to unravel the mystery that surrounds the disappearance of 49-year old Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.  Today marks a week, a very long week, since the Coolidge woman was last seen.  From Sheriff Robbie Goins to Chief Deputy Aaron Evans to deputies, detectives, and TBI agents, there are anywhere from 10 to 20 officers looking for Daugherty everyday. 



Rhonda Kitts Daugherty (L)

The two words that highlight the theme of this strange and disturbing event are “vanished” and “standstill.”  It’s been said countless times that Daugherty just vanished, and that even though the search has gone 24/7 since, no clues leave the investigation at a standstill.(12/09/2014 - 6:00 AM)

Manhunt for Vann reaches Day Four

     Former La Follette Middle School teacher Lonnie Vann remains on the run this morning. Vann is wanted by the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for a Friday afternoon armed robbery on Deerfield Way in La Follette.  Vann, 44, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes. He stands approximately 5 foot 9 inches tall and weighs 275 pounds. He was last seen driving a white Chevy Captiva with Maryland registration 2 B C 6 4 1 1.

 

Lonnie Vann

He is believed to be in possession of several firearms and should be considered extremely dangerous.  Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Vann is urged to call the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463). There is a $1,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.  Over the weekend, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation added Vann to the state’s Top 10 Most Wanted list. (12/09/2014 - 6:00 AM)







Reward in Daugherty case increased.  Again.



     Through anonymous funds and sheriff's funds, Campbell County Sheriff Robbie K. Goins announces a reward increase to a $5,000 reward for any information regarding missing Campbell Countian Rhonda Daugherty.  That’s up from Saturday’s increase to $4,500.  More stories and her picture are found further down this page.   (12/07/2014 - 7:00 PM)

Public says what police won’t in hunt for missing woman

     Was Friday’s home robbery at Deerfield a clue or coincidence in the mysterious disappearance of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty?  Police won’t say.  But the popular belief circulating on the street is that there is a connection between the home burglary authorities say Lonnie Vann committed and the woman from Coolidge who went missing last Tuesday (12/02/2014).  If these two disturbing stories are connected, Vann’s late afternoon hold-up on Friday (12/05/2014) is a gigantic clue and the first big break toward solving Daughtery’s disappearance. 

WLAF has confirmed that the two know each other and that each attended the same church, Coolidge First Baptist.  Daugherty vanished almost a week ago from her hilltop home at Coolidge while Vann remains on the run this morning.  Vann is free on a $10,000 bond and has a February court date in Campbell County Criminal Court regarding inappropriate misconduct charges that involve a student from La Follette Middle School. 

The 44-year old Vann was a teacher at the school and is currently suspended without pay.  More stories on Vann, who is now on the TBI’s Top Ten Most Wanted List, and Daugherty are found further down this page.  (12/08/2014 6:00 AM)



Reward in Daugherty case increased

     The reward for a missing Campbell County woman, Rhonda Daugherty, has been increased to $4,500 for information regarding her whereabouts.  More stories and her picture are found further down this page.   (12/06/2014 - 9:00 PM)

Vann makes TBI's Top Ten Most Wanted List



TBI NAMES JACKSBORO MAN TO TOP 10 MOST WANTED

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has a new addition to the state’s Top 10 Most Wanted list, Lonnie Lee Vann of Jacksboro, TN.

Vann is wanted by the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for a Friday afternoon armed robbery on Deerfield Way in La Follette.

Vann, 44, is described as a white male with brown hair and brown eyes. He stands approximately 5 foot 9 inches tall and weighs 275 pounds. He was last seen driving a white Chevy Captiva with Maryland registration 2 B C 6 4 1 1. He is believed to be in possession of several firearms and should be considered extremely dangerous.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Vann is urged to call the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463). There is a $1,000 reward for information leading to his arrest.  (12/06/2014 - 9:30 AM)

Breaking news

Former teacher indicted for misconduct is wanted in connection with armed robbery

Investigation turned over to the TBI

By Charlotte Underwood



Former Campbell County teacher Lonnie Vann, 43, of Jacksboro, is wanted in connection to an armed robbery which occurred around 3:45 this afternoon in the Deerfield Resort Community. Sources tell WLAF that Vann is a very strong person of interest in connection with the robbery, which occurred at the residence of Jim Fields. According to sources, Vann tied up residence members, robbed them and then left in a cream-colored 2013 Chevrolet Captiva, which Vann had rented on Dec. 3 from LaFollette Enterprise. The vehicle has a Maryland tag with the numbers 2BC-6411. The case has been turned over to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. According to law enforcement, Vann is considered armed and dangerous and is actively being sought for questioning regarding the armed robbery. Anyone who has seen him or has any information to his whereabouts is asked to contact the TBI at 1-800-824-3463, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department at 423-562-7446 or 911. WLAF is also hearing from sources that Vann’s home is being searched in connection with the robbery. Vann has brown hair and a goatee and is somewhat stocky of build. He was last seen driving the cream colored Chevy Captiva.

In July, Vann was indicted by a grand jury for inappropriate conduct with a student after he was charged with solicitation of a minor, sexual battery by an authority figure, tampering with evidence and assault.

Vann taught at LaFollette Middle School and was placed on suspension without pay in October 2013 after allegations of the inappropriate conduct came to light.

In November of 2013, the case was handed over to the District Attorney General and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. According to the TBI, on Oct. 22, Vann took a 13-year-old student off school property to Coolidge First Baptist Church. While in the building, Vann allegedly hugged the female student and tried to kiss her, both without consent.

Vann also allegedly tampered with evidence by altering images on a recording device at the church. Vann turned himself into the Campbell County Sheriff. He was later released on $10,000 bond. He has a February court date in Campbell County Criminal Court regarding the inappropriate misconduct charges. (12/5/14 - 6:10 PM)



Reward offered in Daugherty disappearance

     Through anonymous funds and sheriff's funds, Campbell County Sheriff Robbie K. Goins has announced a $3,500 reward for any information regarding missing Campbell Countyfemale Rhonda Daugherty, as previously reported.  To contact the sheriff, please call 423.562.7446.  (12/05/2014 - 1:00 PM)





Crews searching for Coolidge woman


Rhonda Kitts Daugherty has been missing for almost 24-hours.  Authorities tell WLAF that her husband, Charles, left for work at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday with her still at their Coolidge home.  Rhonda’s mother, Nancy Kitts, explains that she did not get an answer at home or on her cell phone when she tried calling her around 2:30 p.m. yesterday but didn’t think anything of it.  It was dark, misty, and foggy Tuesday night when Sheriff Robbie Goins and members of his department began searching around 8:00 p.m.  The search briefly broke off around 5:00 a.m. this morning when many investigators and deputies left for a couple of hours of sleep.  But they were right back at it at daybreak.  WLAF has learned that on Tuesday night, a search dog out of Roane County picked up Rhonda’s scent from the house to the road in front of the home, Long Hollow Road, and then the dog stopped at the edge of the road.  Members of the La Follette Rescue Squad rode out on four ATVs late this morning for a ground search while awaiting air support to arrive from Knox County in the form of a helicopter.  Rhonda Kitts Daugherty is 49-years old and is described as being five-feet, three-inches tall, weighing 140 pounds with hazel eyes and auburn hair.  Officials outline that Daugherty left behind her purse, cell phone, reading glasses, and car, and that the back door to the home was left open.  Searchers have gone through the Coolidge First Baptist Church, where the command post is set up in the church parking lot, and all the vehicles around the church.  They’ve scoured the local pond, cemetery, Daugherty’s home and all the vehicles on the property.  A door-to-door search was also conducted at all the homes in Coolidge while authorities and hospitals in the region have been contacted last night and this morning.  Chief Deputy Aaron Evans says that nothing’s being ruled out, and he encourages anyone with any information to please call the sheriff at 423.562.7446. (12/03/2014)

 

 

Rhonda Kitts Daugherty is missing.  Family members tell WLAF News that the Coolidge woman has not been seen or heard from since Tuesday.  The woman who celebrated her 49th birthday last month is approximately five-feet, three-inches tall, weighs about 140 pounds, has hazel eyes and brown hair.  Nancy Kitts, Daughtery’s mother, says Rhonda left behind her purse, cell phone, glasses, and car.  If you know the where-a-bouts of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, you are encouraged to call the sheriff at 423.562.7446.

 

A command post is set up at the Coolidge First Baptist church, which is very near the Daugherty home.  Chief Deputy Aaron Evans adds that the search began in mist and fog around 8:00 p.m. Tuesday night and that search dogs were used.  (12/03/2014)

 

 

 

Heatherly's Point is about a 20 minute boat ride from Sugar Hollow Boat Dock, where the search has previously been centered. Investigators say they are still searching Sugar Hollow, but are also looking at all the surrounding areas as well.

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The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, members of the Campbell County Sheriff's Department, the Rescue Squad and investigators from other agencies were busy searching in the Heatherly's Point area of Norris Lake.

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Lonnie Lee Vann appeared in Criminal Court this morning to be arraigned for the murder and kidnapping of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, who has been missing since Dec. 2. Vann pleaded not guilty via a public defender and had his court date reset for spring.

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Tennessee Bureau of Investigation agent Brandon Elkins, left, takes a moment to confer with District Attorney Jared Effler during Lonnie Lee Vann’s arraignment this morning in criminal court.

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Lonnie Lee Vann was recently extradited from Myrtle Beach South Carolina on charges of murder and kidnapping. He is currently being held at the KnoxvilleDetention Center on a $1 million dollar bond.

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During his arraignment for the murder of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, Lonnie Lee Vann hustled in and out of the courtroom, taking a brief moment to fill out paperwork for an appointed attorney before being swept out of the courtroom to be transported back toKnoxville where he is being held.

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Lonnie Lee Vann (PIX COURTESY CAMPBELL COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT)

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TBI Director Mark Gwyn (L), District Attorney General Jared Effler (C), & Sheriff Robbie Goins (R)

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After spending the last five weeks of his life without his daughter, Boyd Wayne Kitts, 71, passed away yesterday, Jan. 6, from a long-term battle with cancer.

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Divers from Blount County and Campbell County continued to search the waters of Sugar Hollow on Friday.  They are pictured here on a platform by an unidentified houseboat at Sugar Hollow on Norris Lake.

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This sign was erected recently in front of Rhonda's Coolidge home at the bottom of the driveway at Long Hollow Road.

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Rhonda Kitts Daugherty has been missing since December 2

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Rhonda Daugherty and her husband Charles

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Rhonda Kitts Daugherty (L)

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Nancy Kitts, mother of Rhonda Kitts Daugherty, takes time to visit with WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood.

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The search for Rhonda Daugherty continued over the weekend.

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Investigators continued searching around Sugar Hollow Marina Saturday & Sunday.

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Sunday saw the Anderson and Campbell County Sheriff’s Departments searching, along with the TBI, for Rhonda Kitts Daugherty.

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Day 18 of search for missing woman; still nothing new to report

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Search for missing woman continues on Norris Lake; sheriff vows to not give up

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Yellow ribbons, like the one pictured above, adorn businesses and homes in honor and memory of Daugherty as local churches continue to pray and community members and officials continue to search.

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Members of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Campbell County Sheriff’s Department and the Knox County Sheriff’s Department searched all day yesterday on the lake for the missing Coolidge woman.

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An un-named diver from the Knox County Sheriff’s Department climbs out of NorrisLake late Wednesday evening after spending the day in the water searching for Rhonda Daugherty. A two-member dive team came from Knoxville to help with the search.

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The Knox County Special Operations Unit was in Campbell County yesterday searching in the Sugar Hollow vicinity for Rhonda Daugherty.

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The Knox County Special Operations Unit was in Campbell County yesterday searching in the Sugar Hollow vicinity for Rhonda Daugherty.

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Lonnie Vann (PIX COURTESY OF THE TBI)

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