Hamilton County sheriff's deputy suspended after arrest on DUI charge

A Hamilton County Sheriff's Office deputy is suspended with pay pending his first court appearance after he was arrested on a DUI charge by the Tennessee Highway Patrol on Friday, according to booking reports.

Deputy Thomas Fulmer, 47, who has been with the department nearly 10 years, was off duty when the incident occurred.

Fulmer was driving a 2006 Ford F-250 east on Walnut Road when he was unable to stay on the road while negotiating a curve, according the report.

He veered off to the right side of the road way and into a yard before cutting back across the road way and striking a mailbox. Fulmer lost control of the vehicle and went back across the road where the truck entered a ditch, overturned and struck a street sign. The pickup stopped on north side of Walnut Road, according to the report.

Fulmer sustained minor injuries from the crash and refused treatment on scene.

If there is enough evidence presented at his first appearance, he will be placed on leave without pay pending the outcome of his trial.

If convicted, it could mean Fulmer will lose his job.

"Generally that's not compatible with his job as a police officer. ... It's difficult. As officers we are held to a higher standard," said Sheriff Jim Hammond.

Fulmer is scheduled to appear in court March 19 before General Sessions Court Judge Ronald Durby.

Contact staff writer Beth Burger at bburger@timesfree press.com or 423-757-6406. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/abburger.