Collinsville Police Chief Stephen Malone was arrested Sunday in Nashville and charged with aggravated assault following an alleged domestic incident.
According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, officers responded to a residence in the 800 block of 12th Avenue South, where Malone had gone to the home of his girlfriend, Savannah Riley. Police said an argument developed between the two, reportedly centered on accusations of cheating.
Riley told investigators that Malone struck her repeatedly in the face with a closed fist. She also alleged that Malone grabbed her by the throat and slammed her to the ground several times during the altercation.
Metro Nashville investigators reported observing visible scratches and bruising on Riley that were consistent with her account of events.
Police stated that Malone was initially reluctant to provide details about what occurred. Investigators said Malone told officers only that Riley was intoxicated and that he was attempting to help her without getting her into trouble.
After being informed of Riley’s injuries, Malone later agreed to speak with investigators. He told investigators that Riley attacked him and broke his necklace, adding that he became angry after the alleged attack. Police said Malone was unable to explain how Riley sustained her injuries.
Based on the evidence and statements collected, investigators determined Malone to be the primary aggressor, noting that Riley’s account aligned with her observed injuries.
Malone was booked into the Downtown Nashville Detention Center at 8:17 p.m. Sunday on a charge of aggravated assault involving strangulation. Jail records indicate he was released on bond Monday at 7:35 p.m.
Collinsville Mayor Jeff Chandler has stated that Malone has resigned from his position as Collinsville Police Chief. Chandler also announced that Jeremy Pinegar has been appointed as interim chief of police.
Malone had served as Collinsville’s police chief since September 2025. Prior to his appointment in Collinsville, he previously held police chief positions in Ider and Powell.
