Sheriff Accused of Racial Profiling During Gas Station Stop; Woman Identified as Federal Agent

Millbrook, TN (BuzzReport)- An encounter at a local gas station has sparked allegations of racial profiling and prompted an internal review, after a county sheriff stopped a Black woman and accused her of stealing the SUV she was driving—unaware she is a federal law enforcement agent.

The incident occurred late in the evening at a BP gas station on Hatcher Road, where Tanisha Coppersmith had stopped to refuel after a long workday. According to preliminary accounts, a marked patrol vehicle entered the station and positioned itself directly behind her Cadillac Escalade, effectively blocking it from leaving.

Authorities say the deputy, identified as Sheriff Saul Howard, approached Coppersmith and requested her license and registration. Coppersmith, who remained composed during the encounter, reportedly asked what traffic violation had prompted the stop. The sheriff did not immediately provide a clear explanation, instead focusing attention on the vehicle.

Sources familiar with the situation indicate that the sheriff questioned whether the SUV was stolen, citing what he described as irregularities related to the vehicle. However, those claims have not been substantiated, and officials have not confirmed any evidence that the vehicle was unlawfully obtained.

The situation escalated when it became clear that Coppersmith is a federal agent assigned to a regional office, though specific details about her role have not been publicly disclosed due to the sensitive nature of her work.

Witnesses at the scene described the interaction as tense but controlled, noting that Coppersmith complied with requests while maintaining a calm demeanor. No arrest was made, and the stop concluded without further incident.

Civil rights advocates have since raised concerns about the circumstances leading to the stop, questioning whether racial bias played a role in the sheriff’s decision to detain and accuse Coppersmith. Legal experts note that law enforcement officers must have reasonable suspicion to initiate such encounters, and any deviation from protocol could carry serious implications.

In a brief statement, the sheriff’s office acknowledged the incident and confirmed that it is under internal review.

“We are aware of the situation and are conducting a thorough assessment of the circumstances surrounding the stop,” the statement read. “We take all allegations seriously and are committed to ensuring accountability and adherence to departmental policies.”

As of now, no disciplinary actions have been announced.

The case remains under investigation, and additional details—including body camera footage and dispatch records—are expected to play a key role in determining whether proper procedures were followed.

Officials have not indicated whether external agencies will be involved in the review.