(Smith County Insider Press) Gordonsville, Tenn. – On Thursday, September 3, the Gordonsville Police Department was dispatched to Gordonsville Market, across from McDonalds, to investigate a potential intoxicated male that had arrived at the store.
Upon arrival, Officer David Petty and Assistant Chief Jerry Bass spoke with the man. The man was Randall Shane Veatch from Farmerville, LA. After speaking with him, they determined he had not been drinking. At that time, the officers noticed that their were three passengers in Veatch’s vehicle, his wife and two children. His wife, Shannon Marie Veatch, was in the passenger seat, and she seemed to be intoxicated. The Gordonsville Officers advised Mr. Veatch that it might be best if they got a room at the Comfort Inn for the night to ensure the welfare of the children. Officer Petty and Bass followed them across the street to the Comfort Inn to assist them with getting a room.
Upon Arrival at the Comfort Inn, the officers noticed that there were several empty containers of alcohol in the vehicle, including in the cup holders. At that point, it became apparent to the officers that welfare of the children was definitely not in the parent’s priorities.
After further investigation of the children’s condition, the officers arrested Mr. and Mrs. Veatch, and charged them with Child Neglect. Shannon Marie Veatch was also cited for public intoxication.
The two children were placed in into the custody of the Department of Children’s Services.
Mr. and Mrs. Veatch were transported to Smith County Jail Facility for booking.
