TOP LAW ENFORCEMENT VETERAN TONY JAY CRISP TO RUN FOR STATE HOUSE

“Believes government works best when you listen to the people.”

For over 50 years, Tony Crisp has a distinguished record of serving the people of Blount County as a law enforcement professional, administrator, and public servant. Tony’s decision to run for state house is rooted in the same values that have guided his entire career: respect and appreciation for taxpayers, support for first responders and working families, and a belief that government works best when leaders listen and act responsibly. Tony is currently Maryville Police and Fire Department Chief which has prepared him to serve as state representative. 

“What a tremendous opportunity to continue to serve and protect a community with incredible people, helping folks in need, being a watch dog for taxpayers, and working to improve our infrastructure and making sure our county is not over developed,” Crisp said. “I intend to earn your trust and will never take my responsibility lightly.”

Tony has earned recognition for his leadership abilities and dedication to safety not only across the state, but also nationwide throughout his career. He was honored as Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police, Chief of the of the year in 2015, received the Executive of the Year from the International Association of Administrative Professionals in 2003, and was awarded the prestigious Chief Joe Casey award by the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police in 2017 and 2023. Crisp was also honored with induction into the Daily Times Hall of Fame, received the 2006 Outstanding Alumnus Award from Roane County Community College, and was presented along with his resource officers the Starlight Award by the Maryville City Schools Foundation.

Tony’s career began in 1973, with the Friendsville Police Department, where he worked his way up to Chief of Police just 4 years later. In 1977, he joined the Maryville Police Department where he served as a patrol officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain and spent over two decades serving the community from the ground up: on the streets, alongside fellow officers, and in leadership roles.

In April 1999, Tony was appointed Chief Deputy at the Blount County Sheriff’s Office. He later returned to the Maryville Police Force in 2002, this time serving as Chief of Police. Under his leadership the city entrusted Chief Crisp with the oversight of the Fire Department as well, recognizing his ability to manage complex organizations, budgets, and personnel, while also keeping the community safe.

Crisp has served on boards and organizations such as United Way of Blount County, Maryville Kiwanis Club (President), Law Enforcement Coalition of Tennessee (President), the Fraternal Order of Police (member and past president), and is a member of the NRA.

Tony is a graduate of Friendsville High School, and the Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy. He is also a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy and holds an associate degree in Criminal Justice from Roane State Community College.

Chief Crisp is married to Phyllis Lee Crisp; the current Register of Deeds for Blount County and they have two children and five grandchildren.