Tenn. Code Ann. § 40-33-212

Only the chief administrative officer of the seizing agency, or the officer's designee, shall be permitted to negotiate or enter into any type of settlement agreement or agreements prior to the forfeiture hearing conducted pursuant to § 40-33-210. In no event shall any officer involved in the seizure of the property be allowed to negotiate or enter into any type of settlement agreement or agreements prior to the forfeiture hearing. All negotiated settlements by any seizing agency are subject to the approval of the chief administrative officer of the applicable agency.