Offender Convicted of Robbing Undercover Officer during Sting Operation

A Knox County jury found William Earl Clark, Jr., 23, guilty-as-charged following the armed robbery of an undercover officer during a drug sting operation. Clark was convicted of Aggravated Robbery, Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana in a Drug Free Zone, and Employing a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony. Judge Bob McGee revoked Clark’s bond and ordered him into custody upon conviction.

During the two-day trial, Assistant District Attorney Kevin Allen explained to the jury that on April 16, 2014, Clark arranged to buy a pound of marijuana from an informant working with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit. As part of the sting, an undercover officer went with the informant during the drug deal with surveillance officers watching the deal ready to make an arrest after the sale was complete. Clark and another individual met with the undercover officer to buy the marijuana for $3450. During the deal, Clark pulled a .25 caliber handgun on the officers, grabbed the marijuana, and ran to his vehicle. He was quickly apprehended by the surveillance officers who had already surrounded the area.

“This case is just one example of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day,” said DA Charme Allen.”Thanks to these dedicated officers, this violent offender is off the streets tonight.”

Judge McGee set the case for sentencing on February 11. Aggravated Robbery is a Class B felony that carries a punishment between eight and twelve years in prison. Clark faces a minimum seven-year-sentence on the drug and gun charges.

If you have any questions, please contact Sean McDermott at 865-215-2515 or Sean.McDermott@knoxcounty.org. For more information about the District Attorney’s Office, visit our website at dag.knoxcountytn.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.