The Tennessee POST Commission held a formal hearing on February 21, 2025, focusing on allegations surrounding the use of human growth hormone (HGH) by law enforcement personnel. The session featured testimony from individuals involved in the case, including Mister Carter and Mister Gaines, who discussed the circumstances of HGH purchases and usage.

During the hearing, Mister Carter was questioned about his knowledge of the substance he received from Gaines, which was presented in a clear vial without a label. Carter acknowledged that the lack of labeling raised concerns about the substance's nature, admitting it could have been anything, including steroids. This admission led to further inquiries about the secrecy surrounding his use of HGH, as he confirmed that he did not disclose this information to friends, family, or fellow competitors.

Mister Gaines, who sold the HGH, was also questioned about whether he sold to others and the nature of his transactions. He stated he had no knowledge of other buyers and described the purchase as a private matter. The discussion highlighted the potential ethical implications of a law enforcement officer using performance-enhancing drugs while upholding the law.

The hearing also addressed Carter's employment history, including a break in service and his application process with the Highway Patrol. Questions arose regarding whether he disclosed his HGH use on official documents, to which he responded he believed he had, as the department was already aware of the situation.

Commissioners pressed for clarity on whether local law enforcement officials, including the sheriff and district attorney, were informed about the HGH sales. Carter indicated that they were aware of his purchases, but the specifics of those conversations were unclear.

The hearing underscored the ongoing scrutiny of drug use within law enforcement and the potential ramifications for officers who engage in such practices. The commission is expected to continue its investigation into the matter, with further testimonies and evidence likely to be presented in upcoming sessions.