Man Driving Kids Christmas Train Charged With Meth DUI

A man was arrested over the weekend in Tazewell during the festivities happening before the town's parade, which were mostly geared toward children.

On Saturday evening, many people saw the conductor of "Santa's Train" acting very erratically, which gained the attention of Tazewell Police officers who were working nearby. The man was identified as 40-year-old Henry Meade.

According to the Tazewell Police Department, Meade was driving around on a riding lawnmower that was converted into a "train" that pulled two carts behind it. It was used to give rides on "Santa's Train" to kids and families that were in the area during the Christmas Tractor Parade on Main Street.

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Officers said when they talked to Meade, he was very unsteady on his feet. A field sobriety test was done on him, which determined that he was under the influence, according to the arrest report.

Meade was taken into custody - and a search of his person turned up a syringe, meth, and several narcotics on him.

Following his arrest, the Tazewell Police Department released a statement saying that Meade was not hired by the city for the parade, but was independently contracted to drive the "train."

“Despite this, the Tazewell Police Department responded swiftly to the incident, ensuring the safety of event attendees. The rapid action taken by our law enforcement underscores our commitment to public safety.

It is important to note that in a 1/8 mile radius on Main Street during the event we had 14 police officers on foot patrol for several thousands attendees. Public safety is paramount on any day at any time and this event was no different.”

Mayor Bill Fannon and Chief of Police Jeremy Myers

Meade was taken to the Claiborne County Jail. He faces charges of driving under the influence, possession of methamphetamine and other drug charges.