Former CCSO Deputy Daugherty waives March 23 court appearance

Sheriff Wayne Barton failed to respond to WLAF’s request for comment

By SUSAN SHARP

JACKSBORO, TN. (WLAF)- Additional details are emerging about a Campbell County Sheriff’s Deputy indicted for aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor.

Zachary Daugherty was indicted and subsequently arrested on the sole count.

Daugherty, who was a detective with the sheriff’s department, is alleged to have purchased, exchanged or possessed with the intent to purchase or exchange material which includes a minor engaged in sexual activity or simulated sexual activity that is patently offensive, according to the indictment. The number of materials involved in the allegations is more than 25, court records said.

Daugherty’s crimes are alleged to have taken place between April 1 and June 30, 2025.

If convicted, Daugherty could face a minimum of eight years in prison, mandatory registration as a sexual offender and up to $25,000 in fines, according to state sentencing laws.

The alleged exchange took place over the social media platform Discord, law enforcement releases said.

“Discord is a communications platform that enables you to build meaningful connections around the joy of playing games through voice, video and text features. People use Discord daily to talk about many things, including topics like art projects, family trips, homework, and mental health support. It’s a home for communities of any size, but it’s most widely used by small and active groups of people who talk regularly,” according to the site’s self-styled description.

However, multiple Internet safety sites warn parents of the pitfalls of the platform.

Daugherty has retained Jacksboro attorney Jeff Coller to represent him. He also waived his appearance at his March 23 arraignment meaning Coller will appear on his behalf, according to court records. He remains free on a $75,000 bond.

Sheriff Wayne Barton failed to respond to WLAF’s request for comment. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED 3/16/2026-6AM)