The FBI and IRS locked down Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam’s Pilot Flying J headquarters in West Knoxville while executing a search warrant Monday afternoon.
Our ABC affiliate in Knoxville said the raid involves a criminal investigation into taxes. The FBI did not respond immediately to calls for comment, but a Pilot spokeswoman issued a statement this afternoon.
“As of the afternoon of April 15, FBI officials have sequestered the Pilot Flying J headquarters on Lonas Drive in Knoxville,” according to the statement from Lauren Christ of Moxley Carmichael public relations firm.
“At this time, we do not know the nature of the situation. Pilot Flying J is cooperating fully with the authorities.
“Pilot Food Marts, Pilot Travel Centers and Flying J Travel Plazas remain open and continue to serve the public.
“Pilot Flying J is confident that the matter will be resolved fully.”
The Knoxville Police Department provided officers in support of the raid.
“All I can say is that the FBI asked us to have some officers assist them with a search warrant,” Police Chief David Rausch said.
Raush said he was not informed in advance where the search was to be and did not know until the officers radioed in from the scene.
“The FBI secured our headquarters today and informed us they are investigating Pilot Flying J,” Haslam said in a statement. “I believe and trust there has been no wrongdoing. The integrity of our company always has been job number 1.”
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article courtesy of Newsnet5.com
