From the exact same Tennessee law, a person commits the offense of theft of services who: "(3) Knowingly absconds from establishments where compensation for ser

From the exact same Tennessee law, a person commits the offense of theft of services who: "(3) Knowingly absconds from establishments where compensation for services is ordinarily paid immediately upon the rendering of them, including hotels, motels and restaurants, without payment or a bona fide offer to pay." Your stay at a hotel or meal at a restaurant is private business between you and that hotel/restaurant. Local law enforcement only gets involved if you choose not to pay.