SUBJECT:  Investigation of Theft Leads to Felony Charges 

DATE:  March 12th, 2025

CASE #: 23-019105

GENERAL NARRATIVE

In September of 2023, Kingsport Police Department Detectives began investigating allegations of theft from a local non-profit youth organization, Central Cougar Youth Athletics. The organization alleged that Kristen Houser had been given funds to purchase cheerleading uniforms for use by youth in their program. Mrs. Houser was alleged to have taken the funds and used them for her benefit.

 

Detectives assigned to the case served multiple subpoenas, conducted at least a dozen interviews, and reviewed the financial transactions of all parties involved before submitting their findings to the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office in Blountville. In February 2025, the findings of the investigation were presented to the grand jury, and a true bill was returned. Kristen was charged with one (1) count of Theft of Property (Over $10,000) and one (1) count of Criminal Simulation.

 

SUSPECT INFORMATION

Name Kristen Houser

Age 39

Gender/Race Female/White 

Residency Bristol, TN 

Charges Theft of Property (Over $10,000) and Criminal Simulation

 

 

VICTIM INFORMATION

Name Central Cougar Youth Athletics 

 

 

RELEASING OFFICER

Corporal Brandon Arnold

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit

Office (423) 229-9339, Fax (423) 343-9749 

BrandonArnold@KingsportTN.gov