Repeat Domestic Abuser Sentenced to Twelve Years in Prison

Prosecutors in DA Charme Allen’s Domestic Violence Unit obtained a twelve-year sentence against a repeat domestic abuser who beat his girlfriend and would not let her leave their home. Nicklaus Edward Brush, 41, was convicted of Aggravated Kidnapping and Domestic Assault, Third Offense. Following a sentencing hearing, Judge Steve Sword ordered Brush to serve twelve years in prison without the possibility of parole.

At trial in August, Assistant District Attorneys Christy Smith and Randall Kilby explained to the jury that on January 25, 2019, Knox County Sheriff’s Office Officer Travis Webb responded to a business on Chapman Highway on a report of a domestic disturbance. At the business, Ofc. Webb spoke to the victim who stated that her boyfriend, Nicklaus Brush, held her against her will at their residence the previous day. When the victim woke up the previous morning, Brush told her to go back to the bedroom. In the bedroom, Brush pushed the victim into the corner of the room and began to kick and punch her, causing her to bleed. Brush told the victim to put a blanket over her head and would not allow her to leave for four hours, as he carried a gun around throughout the day. The following day, Brush drove the victim to Little Caesars Pizza on Chapman Highway. When Brush went inside the restaurant, the victim ran into H&R Block and called 911. Officers were able to photograph bruises on the victim’s face, arms, and legs.

“Historically, we see more warrants for domestic-related crimes than any other offense,” said DA Charme Allen.”Unfortunately, we have seen that trend continue during the last year.”

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.