News Summary
Timothy Meyer, an evangelist and director of missions at E-VAN Ministries, has had stalking charges dismissed after the alleged victim withdrew from the case. Despite the dismissal, the state highlighted the substantial nature of the allegations. The incidents, occurring at a local Walmart, raised concerns about the legal system’s support for stalking victims and the ongoing complexities in such cases, including a civil suit Meyer faces regarding his arrest.
Chattanooga – Charges against Timothy Meyer, a 50-year-old evangelist and director of missions at E-VAN Ministries, were dismissed on Monday in a criminal case linked to stalking allegations at a local Walmart. Judge Amanda Dunn of Hamilton County Criminal Court granted the dismissal after the alleged victim chose to remove herself from the proceedings.
The motion for dismissal filed by the state cited the victim’s desire for protection and to keep her whereabouts undisclosed from Meyer. The state clarified that this decision was not reflective of the case’s merits, which they described as substantial and overwhelming. The decision to dismiss the charges does not eliminate the seriousness of the allegations that were brought against Meyer.
The charges stem from incidents occurring on August 14, 2021, when Meyer was seen entering a Walmart in Signal Mountain, despite previously being banned due to his stalking and harassing behavior towards a staff member. Reports indicated that Meyer had changed his clothes in an attempt to conceal his identity after being told he could not return to the store. Various staff members had raised complaints about Meyer’s repeated visits over a year, noting that he had been bothering a female employee.
The victim described Meyer’s behavior as “weird and creepy,” stating the harassment had persisted for two years despite her requests for him to stop. When approached by law enforcement officers, Meyer allegedly provided a confusing explanation for his presence in the Walmart and resisted arrest when informed he was not free to leave. During the encounter, officers employed a Taser on Meyer, as he struggled and attempted to bite them while being taken into custody.
Meyer represented himself during the criminal case, a choice that raised concerns about the use of legal proceedings for continued harassment toward the victim. The dismissal of these charges has sparked conversations regarding the difficulties faced by stalking victims within the legal system. Victims may find themselves in a position where they must choose between pursuing justice and ensuring their safety, a situation that can lead to the withdrawal of protection orders or cases.
In addition to the dismissed criminal charges, Meyer is currently involved in a civil suit claiming that the city of Chattanooga and its police department violated his civil rights and used excessive force during his arrest. The ongoing civil action complicates an already multifaceted situation, emphasizing the legal challenges faced not only by victims of harassment but also by defendants in similar cases.
The resolution of Meyer’s case and the victim’s choice to withdraw raises significant questions about how the legal system can better support individuals experiencing stalking and harassment. Such situations highlight the potential risks associated with pursuing criminal charges and shed light on the need for improved protections for victims navigating these distressing circumstances.
This development serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in stalking cases and the various factors that can influence the decisions of victims who find themselves ensnared in the legal system. As the case of Timothy Meyer progresses, it may further reveal insights into the broader implications for victims of harassment and the legal framework designed to protect them.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga Evangelist Charges Dismissed
- Wikipedia: Stalking
- Times Free Press: Chattanoogan Evangelist Charged with Stalking
- Google Search: Stalking Laws
- Times Free Press: Jacquelyn Garrison Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Stalking
- News Channel 9: Pastor Bites Officers During Arrest
- Google News: Chattanooga Stalking Case
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
