Man Faces Host Of Charges After Discharging Shotgun Near Playground

A homeless man faces numerous charges after he reportedly discharged a stolen shotgun near a playground in Crossville.  Shortly before 8pm Friday (8/18/2023) Crossville Police were dispatched to the area of Rose Street for a suspicious man who was walking around with a long-barreled shotgun and electronics. An officer located 27-year-old John Michael Smith walking past a playground with the weapon in his arms. When the officer asked Mr. Smith to put the shotgun down, he observed Smith negligently discharge the firearm into the ground. Smith was ordered to lie on the ground and was placed into custody. The shotgun, still loaded with 4 shells, was secured. Witnesses in the area said Smith had been carelessly carrying the shotgun on his shoulder with the barrel aimed toward the playground and his hand on the trigger.  They also said he was trying to sell electronics and the shotgun when he passed through.  A search of the area revealed electronics and various other items, including a backpack with files that had been stolen from Shelter Insurance on Miller Avenue.  Police found over $3,000 worth of stolen property which they returned to the business, including the shotgun.  Mr. Smith was charged with Reckless Endangerment, Burglary and Theft of Property.