Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A Knoxville man identified by authorities as a repeat offender and documented gang member has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted on multiple drug and weapons charges.
District Attorney General Charme Allen announced Thursday that Knox County Criminal Court Judge Hector Sanchez sentenced 39-year-old Brittney Tyrone Goins to the Tennessee Department of Correction following his July convictions.
Goins was found guilty of possession with intent to sell cocaine, fentanyl and gabapentin, possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and unlawful possession of a weapon by a violent felon.
“This repeat offender is again headed to the Tennessee Department of Correction where he has already spent a significant portion of his adult life,” Allen said.
Investigation Began at Knoxville Residence
The case stems from an incident on March 31, 2024, when Knoxville police officers were speaking with residents at a home on Glenwood Avenue.
According to prosecutors, officers observed crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia in plain view while at the residence. As officers continued their investigation, they located Goins hiding inside a bathroom.
Authorities said upon seeing officers, Goins hugged a friend and stated, “I’m gone.”
Police then took Goins into custody on an outstanding warrant.
Drugs and Firearm Recovered
After arresting Goins, officers discovered approximately six grams of crack cocaine on his person, according to prosecutors.
Investigators also found a backpack inside the bathroom containing:
- A loaded 9mm handgun
- Additional cocaine
- Fentanyl
- Drug paraphernalia
- Goins’ vehicle keys
The investigation continued with a search of Goins’ vehicle.
Inside the vehicle, officers reportedly found:
- 137 gabapentin pills
- A holster matching the recovered handgun
- Additional drug distribution paraphernalia
Prosecutors argued the evidence demonstrated Goins was engaged in drug trafficking while illegally possessing a firearm.
Extensive Criminal History
The District Attorney’s Office noted that Goins has accumulated five prior felony convictions dating back to 2005.
Those convictions include offenses related to:
- Attempted robbery
- Drug distribution
- Weapons violations
Because of his criminal record, Goins was prohibited from possessing firearms under Tennessee law.
Authorities also identified Goins as a member of the Tree Top Pirus criminal street gang.
Significant Prison Term Ordered
The 30-year sentence marks another lengthy prison term for Goins, whose criminal history spans more than two decades.
Prosecutors said the case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office to target repeat offenders involved in drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession.
The sentence also reflects growing concerns surrounding fentanyl distribution, as law enforcement agencies across Tennessee continue to prioritize prosecution of cases involving the deadly synthetic opioid.
With the sentencing now complete, Goins will serve his sentence in the Tennessee Department of Correction.
