MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (November 7, 2025) – A wanted fugitive who has been on the run for two years after violating parole on a child neglect conviction in Wisconsin is now facing multiple drug charges in Murfreesboro.

Paul Benzel, 54, of Wisconsin, was taken into custody Thursday, Nov. 6, at the Walmart on Old Fort Parkway. Officers transported Benzel to the hospital for evaluation after he reportedly ingested drugs. After being medically cleared, he was booked into jail.

Detectives charged Benzel with manufacturing, delivering, selling, and possessing controlled substances, including methamphetamine, heroin, opiates, LSD, marijuana, and psilocybin mushrooms, along with unlawful drug paraphernalia. He is also facing a charge of willful abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults. Scroll down for more...

Police were initially called to the store around 12:40 p.m. for a welfare check. Benzel allegedly abandoned his 71-year-old disabled mother, leaving her belongings and a dog in a shopping cart. Detectives later executed a search warrant on a Dutchman Classic camper parked outside and located Benzel hiding inside, along with the illegal drugs and two additional dogs.

Family members are working to transport the mother back to Wisconsin.

Benzel is being held on a $175,000 bond at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center. His first court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 19 in General Sessions Court.

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