Press Releases

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - Deputy Chief Investigator Priscilla Padgett and Investigator Paul Bell completed the FBI Basic Crisis Negotiation Course during the week of September 11-15 at Jacksonville State University Training Facility.  Both, Deputy Chief Investigator Padgett and Investigator Bell, assist DeKalb County Sheriff's Office Special Response Team (SRT) in crisis negotiations; they work closely with team members to de-escalate volatile life and death incidents. 

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "We are lucky to have these two on our team.  It takes a special person to hold things together, be the calm of reason and get the situation under control in the end.  You would need to be able to communicate and understand people from all walks of life and that would not be an easy task, but with this training, I have faith these two would do great in any situation."

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - This past Sunday, September 17th, Sheriff Nick Welden administered the Oath of Office to Adam Moore, Bob Reynolds and Cat Reynolds.  Chaplain Mike Harper has served DCSO for the past 5 years and says he would love to see more volunteer for this program where they can more adequately serve our department and inmates.

A Jail Chaplain is many things but most importantly, they are a confidant and a friend.

If you are interested in being a volunteer Chaplain, give us a call and we will set up the interview process with Mr. Harper.  Requirements for the program are attending Chaplain Academy, finishing the basic course, Intern for 1 year under a DCSO Chaplain and become a member of ICPC (International Conference of Police Chaplains). 

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "This is a wonderful program and asset to our jail that I support 100%.  We definitely need to keep programs like this around and we will push to keep them going." 

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - Working along with the DeKalb County Commission, DeKalb County EMA and Board of Education, we were able to acquire a specific grant to purchase $14,000.00 worth of specialized chemical masks.  These masks will be distributed to our Deputies, SRO's, Investigators and Court House Security Team to better protect them so they can better protect you. 

Deaths due to Fentanyl exposure is on the rise, not only in our County, but everywhere, and this equipment is designed to better protect our Deputies.

DeKalb County Narcotics, along with Jackson County Narcotics issued a search warrant at a residence on Al Hwy 71 in Dutton confiscating 419 pressed Fentanyl pills.  Ethan Teddy Shankles was arrested by Jackson County Sheriff's Office and charged with Trafficking in Fentanyl. 

Once the residence was secure, Agents put on the proper protective equipment to avoid any exposure to Fentanyl.  We have seen a major increase in the production of Fentanyl, powdered and pressed, in the last few months in our community and we are doing everything we can possibly do to combat this problem before we lose any more of our loved ones.

If you know of someone selling or using Fentanyl, please contact DeKalb County Sheriff's Office at 256-845-3801 or send us an email through our tip line at info@dekalbcountysheriff.org.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "It is sad that we have to worry about getting this type of equipment just to properly do our job, but safety, not only for our Deputies, but also for you, is our number ONE goal."

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - The month of August resulted in 32 arrested on drug related charges.  We sincerely appreciate the help we got on these days, and every day, from Henagar, Collinsville, Sylvania, Ider, Powell and Rainsville Police Departments, DeKalb County Sherriff's Deputies and Narcotics Agents, United States Marshall Service and Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles. 

DeKalb County SRT assisted the United States Marshall Service in the apprehension of Jamey Latty (of Collinsville) on August 30th.  When SRT personal arrived on scene, Officers with the US Marshall Service were in negotiating with Latty.  After 3 hours of negotiations, Latty was arrested on outstanding Federal charges without incident.  During a search, Agents discovered over 7 ounces of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Once Latty is released from Federal custody, he will face charges of Trafficking in any Illegal Drugs, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Certain Persons Forbidden to Possess a Firearm in DeKalb County.      

On Tuesday, August 1st, Narcotics Agents with DeKalb County Narcotics and Criminal Interdiction Unit, along with Officers with Henagar Police Department, conducted a search warrant at a residence on Hwy 75 in Henagar.  During the search methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found.  Sonja Kay Mullins (45 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Robin Larae Campbell (39 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Loitering in a Drug House.  Timothy Wayne Smith (51 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Loitering in a Drug House.  Jennifer Michelle Jeffery (44 of Mentone) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Loitering in a Drug House. 

On Wednesday, August 2nd, Officers with Sylvania Police Department stopped a vehicle on Hwy 75 near Industrial Drive in Sylvania finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and controlled pills and also having warrants with several agencies.  Selena Marie Rollins (46 of Sylvania) was charged with Promoting Prison Contraband 1st (x2) Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x3), Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Alias Writ of Arrest (x2) and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.  Once Rollins was booked in at DeKalb County Detention Center, methamphetamine was found on her person. 

On Thursday, August 3rd, DeKalb County Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Valley Road in Henagar.  The vehicle failed to stop, when the driver did pull over, both the driver and passenger fled on foot.  Nethan Robert Al Townson (39 of Henagar) was apprehended.  The other male subject in the vehicle was identified and warrants will be obtained for his arrest.  During a search, methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found.  Townson was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest and Attempt to Elude. 

On Friday, August 4th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop just off Hwy 117, near Hwy 40.  During the stop, the driver was identified as Sherry Denise Gravitt (46 of Henagar).  The passenger initially gave LE a false name but was later identified as Justin Lance Keef (31 of Fort Payne), who also had active warrants.  During the stop, Keef fled on foot, but was later apprehended.  During a search, cocaine was found in the vehicle.  Gravitt was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Hindering Prosecution 2nd and Tampering with Physical Evidence.  Keef was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Giving False ID to LE Officer, Resisting Arrest, Tampering with Physical Evidence and Attempt to Elude and 8 warrants for Failure to Appear.

Also, on Friday, Officers with Collinsville Police Department stopped a vehicle on Al Hwy 68 near Jacks in Collinsville.  Methamphetamine, heroin and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle.  Both the driver and passenger had active warrants as well.  Lori Carr Weaver (51 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and 1 warrant for Failure to Appear.  Deandrea Ruth Woo (35 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Contempt of Court and 7 warrants for Failure to Appear.

On Saturday, August 5th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 751 in the Valley Head area.  During the stop, the driver was found to be in possession of methamphetamine.  Juan Sergio Toualdo Garcia (32 of Huntsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Also, on Saturday, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 88 for a tag violation.  The driver was found to have active warrants with Scottsboro.  During a search of the vehicle, methamphetamine was found.  Ronald Thomas Kainec (54 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Sunday, August Officers with Henagar Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Green Briar Road for an expired tag.  Before the vehicle came to a stop, officers observed the drivers throw two objects from the window.  Officers found the objects that were thrown and identified what was inside as methamphetamine.  Karen Michelle Combs (49 of Pisgah) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Criminal Littering. 

On Monday, August 7th, DeKalb County Deputies stopped a vehicle on Short Street in Geraldine for an expired tag and not wearing a seat belt.  Methamphetamine was found during a search of the vehicle.  Matthew Kyle Patterson (32 of Albertville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Wednesday, August 9th, DeKalb County Deputies were in the area of County Road 82 following up on extra patrol after reports of theft from that area had been reported.  While Deputies were patrolling, they noticed a male subject slowly riding by on a bicycle acting suspicious.  As the Deputy approached the male subject, the man attempted to flee, but was quickly apprehended.  Juan R Garcia (36 of Crossville) was found in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Garcia was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear. 

On Thursday, August 10th, DeKalb County Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Dugout Valley Road in Fort Payne to assist Officers with State Pardons and Parole while they were conducting a home visit.  Prior to Deputies arrival, a Parole Officer had found marijuana, methamphetamine and pills within the residence.  James Derrick Haney (32 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and a warrant for Failure to Appear.  David Byron Womack (47 of Fort Payne) was found to be in possession of Xanex, which he did not have a prescription for.  Womack was charged with Escape 3rd, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Court Order.

On Friday, August 11th, Narcotics Agents arrested Dylan A Stephens (24 of Fyffe) for another agency.  Upon arrest, Stephens was found in possession of Methamphetamine, acid and drug paraphernalia.  Stephens was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2) and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Wednesday, August 16th, DeKalb County Deputies responded to a call at a business on Hwy 35 at the top of the mountain in Rainsville about a suspicious vehicle and activity.  Upon arrival, Deputies made contact with Pamela Lynn Massey (42 of Fort Payne).  Massey was found in possession of dab (THC wax).  Massey was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Friday, August 18th, DeKalb County Deputies stopped a 4-wheeler on Hwy 227 and Hwy 75 after observing the 4-wheeler driving on Hwy 227.  Cody Mark Jones (33 of Collinsville) was found in possession of 21 grams of methamphetamine.  Jones was charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and a warrant for Failure to Appear. 

On Friday, August 18th, DeKalb County Deputies arrested Samantha Gail Moore (23 of Henagar) on active warrants.  During a search at DeKalb County Detention Center, Moore was found in possession of controlled pills.  Moore was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (x2) and Promote Prison Contraband 2nd. 

Also, on Friday, DeKalb County Deputies stopped a vehicle near Hwy 75 and Hwy 227, finding the driver to be in possession of cocaine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Shannon Derrick Garrard (37 of Albertville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st. 

On Saturday, August 19th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 51 and County Road 30.  During the search, approximately 3 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found.  Ricky James Myers (58 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On August 20th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop near County Road 107 and County Road 81.  During a search, 220 grams of marijuana was found in the vehicle.  Leighann Canzano (40 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Also, on Sunday, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 323 off Hwy 117.  Marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found during a search of the vehicle.  Kennedy Lasha Steele (24 of Pisgah) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Monday, August 21st, Officers with Henagar Police Department conducted a traffic stop near Hwy 40 and Hwy 75 in Henagar, finding that the driver had felony warrants and was arrested.  Methamphetamine, fentanyl, controlled pills and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle. Dillon Ferdnand Bergeron (31 of Huntsville) claimed all belonged to him.  Bergeron was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substances (x3) and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Friday, August 25th, Narcotics Agents conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 35 in Rainsville for a driving violation.  During a search, 69 pressed fentanyl pills were found.  Richard Madison-Noel Hudson (25 of Fort Payne) was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Also, on Friday, Officers with Ider Police Department stopped a vehicle on Hwy 75.  During a search, Officers found the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Michael Shannon Boyd (49 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Sunday, August 27th, DeKalb County Deputies were at a restaurant in Ider when they observed a white male who appeared to be under the influence.  While Deputies were talking to the man, they noticed an odor of marijuana coming from his person.  During a search, Deputies found marijuana and methamphetamine.  Robert Niles Swartout (37 of Triana, Ga) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Public Intoxication.

On Tuesday, August 29th, Narcotics Agents stopped a vehicle On Tuesday, August 296th, Narcotics Agents stopped a vehicle on Lacey Road in Henagar finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Alena Bailey Benson (25 of Pisgah) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2) and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Wednesday, August 30th, DeKalb County Deputies, along with Offices with Powell, Sylvania and Rainsville Police Departments responded to a call of subject passed out in a vehicle on County Road 102.  When Officers made contact with Jonathan Kirk Haston (46 of Section) and found him to be in possession of synthetic marijuana.  Haston was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Thursday, August 31st, Officers with Collinsville Police Department stopped a vehicle after identifying the driver as Janette Lynn Donaldson (38 of Collinsville) having active warrants with our agency.  During a search of the vehicle, methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found.  Donaldson was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - On August 29, 2023, Narcotics Agents conducted a traffic stop resulting in the seizure of a Trafficking amount of Methamphetamine as well as a Trafficking amount of Fentanyl.

Agents conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 in Ider, at Frankies Service station. During the Stop the driver fled on foot leaving the passenger in the vehicle, Agents identified the passenger as Scott William Haldane (49 of Ider) who was out on bond with prior charges of Trafficking to include Fentanyl.  Once additional Agents arrived, a search for the driver was conducted but the driver was not found.  Haldane was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug (x2), Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Resisting Arrest.

A search of the vehicle reviled over 60 grams of methamphetamine, 6 grams of Crack Cocaine, and 7 grams of powder Fentanyl as well as drug paraphernalia. 

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "Drug addiction destroys not only the addict, but also the ones who love them.  Our goal is to stop it before it starts and that is why our Agents are out continuously working diligently in an attempt to keep these dangerous drugs off the streets and out of the hands of our youth."

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

FORT PAYNE, Ala. -Summer is coming to an end, but unfortunately that doesn't slow down illegal drug abuse. With the start of school right around the corner, DeKalb County, Jackson County and Dade County Sheriff's Office came together to conduct a county wide safe streets back to school saturation.  During this saturation, a trafficking amount of fentanyl was confiscated.  A lot of people are not fully aware of just how dangerous this drug is.

Clandestinely produced fentanyl is usually a powder added into other drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and even marijuana.  It can also be pressed into counterfeit pills that can look like oxycontin, Percocet, Vicodin, Xanax, alprazolam, Adderall, ecstasy, molly or other pills or tablets. 

Please talk with your children about fentanyl, have a calm, direct conversation with no judgements.  Keep an eye on what is in your child's backpack, room, car and things on their phone.  Talk to them about the risk and not to take anything from anyone.  One pill can kill.  A naive mistake can be deadly.

We would like to thank DeKalb County Narcotics Agents, Jackson, Dade and DeKalb County Sheriff's Office, Sylvania, Henagar, Crossville, Geraldine, Ider, Collinsville, Fyffe and Rainsville Police Departments, Collinsville K-9 Unit, Alabama Pardons and Parole Officers and Corrections Officers with DeKalb County Detention Center for everything they do.  We will continue to fight this war on drugs. 

On Friday, July 28th, Narcotics Agents executed a search warrant at a residence on Hwy 117 after receiving information of the male subject who lives there dealing illegal drugs.  During a search of the residence, Agents found a trafficking amount of fentanyl, methamphetamine, acid, cocaine, dabb, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Scott William Haldane (48 of Ider) was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x4) and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd. 

On Thursday, July 6th, Officers with Sylvania Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 and Shankles Road.  During the stop, approximately 5 grams of methamphetamine was located in the vehicle.  Jerry Lee Miller II (36 of Scottsboro) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

On Friday, July 7th, Officers with Sylvania Police Department was conducting a safety checkpoint at County Road 47.  As a vehicle was approaching the checkpoint, the driver threw a bag out of the window.  After the bag was retrieved and suspected of methamphetamine, a search was done of the vehicle.  Marijuana was found inside the vehicle.  Michael Wayne Townson (33 of Dutton) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st. 

On Sunday, July 9th, Officers with Henagar Police Department responded to a residence on Andrew Lee Drive of a young juvenile finding illegal narcotics that had been dropped by a female who was using a fake name.  Narcotic Agents soon determined the female was Dean Spurgeon Williams (53 of Fort Payne), who also had outstanding warrants.  Williams was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Endangering Welfare of a Child, Using False ID to Obstruct Justice and 3 warrants for Failure to Appear. 

On Monday, July 10th, DeKalb County Deputies were at a local restaurant when they saw Jonathan Michael Gray (39 of Gadsden) who they knew had active warrants.  Gray was also found in possession of synthetic marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Gray was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.

On Monday, July 10th, Narcotics Agents conducted a search warrant at a residence on County Road 72 in the Grove Oak area after several complaints of drug use.  Daniel Ray Brown (31 of Grove Oak) was charged with Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Carolyn Felecia Wilson (51 of Fyffe) and Carrie Jean Venable (62 of Fyffe) were both charged with Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Tuesday, July 11th, DeKalb County Deputies made a traffic stop on County Road 370, finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine, Xanax and drug paraphernalia.  Sarah Elizabeth Davis (41 of Boaz) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Using False ID to Obstruct Justice and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.

Again, on Tuesday, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 176 finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Robert Young Davis (52 of Collinsville) was charged with Probation Violation (x2) Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

On Wednesday, July 12th, Narcotics Agents conducted a search warrant on Robin hood Drive in Fyffe.  During a search of the house, a trafficking amount of methamphetamine was found.  Two different types of controlled pills and drug paraphernalia were also found in the residence.  Justin Dewey Martin (26 of Fyffe) and Mary Guffey Subias (32 of Sylvania) were both charged with Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2).  

Again, on Wednesday, Officers with Crossville Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 68 in Crossville.  Collinsville K-9 Unit arrived on scene to assist with the stop.  During the search, the K-9 Unit was deployed with a positive alert.  Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found.  Jerry Ralph Aaron (41 of Attalla) and Jennifer Shallon Ford (43 of Attalla) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance. 

Also, on Wednesday, Officers with Alabama Pardon and Paroles went to the residence of Jeremy Owens Fossett (51 of Fort Payne) to conduct an in-home visit.  While there, Officers found synthetic marijuana, residual amount of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Fossett was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Parole Violation.

On Thursday, July 13th, Narcotics Agents went to the Super 8 Motel in Rainsville after several calls of suspected drug abuse.  While there, Agents found Derrick Lagundez Burke (35 of Rainsville) to be in possession of approximately one lb. of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a firearm.  Burke was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Friday, July 14th, Melissa Leshae Biddle (43 of Henagar) was brought into the DeKalb County Detention Center on active warrants.  After arriving with Biddle, she stated to Corrections Officers that she had methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia on her person.  Biddle was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 3 warrants for Failure to Appear. 

Again, on Friday, Officers with Geraldine Police Department conducted a traffic stop on County Road 52 near Hwy 227 in Geraldine.  During the stop, Elizabeth Landers Miller (60 of Crossville) was found holding an envelope containing fentanyl.  Miller was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Also, on Friday, Officers with Ider Police Department were involved in a vehicle pursuit on Hwy 75.  After the vehicle struck a mailbox, the driver fled on foot.  Narcotics Agents were called to the scene to help locate the driver.  A short time later Dennis Shane Frazier (49 of Henagar) was located and placed in custody.  Frazier was found in possession of methamphetamine.  Frazier was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Criminal Mischief 3rd, Attempt to Elude (x2), Reckless Endangerment, Parole Violation and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Monday, July 24th, Narcotics Agents received information of an individual on Carissa Road being in possession of fentanyl.  Agents, along with Officers with Sylvania Police Department, went to the residence to execute a search warrant.  Tylin Marlene Cisco (19 of Sylvania) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Again, on Monday, Officers with Collinsville Police Department responded to the Piggly Wiggly after receiving complaints of an individual in the parking lot looking into vehicles.  When Officers approached the male subject, he started fighting with the Officers, attempting to disarm the Officers.  DeKalb County Sheriff's Office and Crossville Police Department arrived to assist Officers.  Once the situation was under control, Andre Ladon Orr (50 of Collinsville) was placed under arrest and found in possession of synthetic marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Orr was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Trespass 3rd and Disarming a Law Enforcement Officer or Corrections Officer.   

On Friday, July 28th, Officers with Fyffe Police Department, along with DeKalb County Deputies, responded to a residence on Davis Road after receiving a call of a possible overdose.  When Officers arrived, they found John Eugene McClendon (52 of Fyffe) laying across the bed with marijuana and methamphetamine beside him.  While collecting evidence, a vehicle pulled into the driveway.  While searching the vehicle, approximately 29 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia was found.  McClendon was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.  Keila Brewster (38 of Rainsville) was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Sunday, July 30th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Grove Oak area finding the driver in possession of marijuana and two hits of acid.  Evan Blake Holtzclaw (25 of Guntersville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

Again, on Sunday, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop near County Road 52 in the Lebanon area.  Synthetic marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle.  Craig Jerome Maddox (23 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd (x2) and Tampering with Physical Evidence (x2).  Christinna Laurie Tucker (35 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Katelin Dawn Gilliam (26 of Sylvania) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Tampering with Physical Evidence and Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd.  After arriving at the DeKalb County Detention Center, Maddox and Gilliam were found to be in possession of synthetic marijuana. 

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "As school is about to start back, remind your children that the SRO's are working diligently in our schools to protect them.  They are a huge resource and friend to our youth, don't hesitate to talk with them".

"Our Family is your Family, let's protect each other."

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndal/pr/repeat-offender-sentenced-14-years-prison

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - Rayford Raymond Russell aka "Pete" (74 of Rainsville) was sentenced to 168 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Liles C. Burke.  In February, Russell plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, attempt to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, use of a phone to facilitate a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Russell was on federal supervised release when he committed these crimes.

On May 23, 2023, U.S. District Court Judge Liles C. Burke sentenced Cindy Land Franklin (64 of Flat Rock) to 36 months in prison for use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking crime.  Franklin plead guilty to this charge in February 2023. 

A link to the official Press Release from the U.S. States Attorney's Office is attached at the top of this article.  

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "This case displayed exceptional work by everyone involved.  This case is a prime example of why law enforcement needs a good working relationship among agencies and I couldn't be more thankful for the wonderful relationship we have with these agencies."

"This is a HUGE WIN on the war on drugs in our County and many more.   The volume of drugs theses criminals were dealing in would no doubt spread to numerous surrounding Counties and no telling how many families would have been affected."

Job WELL DONE!!  

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - On Thursday, July 13th, 2023, DeKalb County Narcotics, along with Jackson County Narcotics conducted a search warrant on County Road 322 in Henagar.  After a joint investigation into trafficking activities, agents found Hollie Jamaica Hall to be in possession of a pound of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, several weapons and an undisclosed amount of US currency.  Hall was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail where she was charged with Dangerous Drugs-Drug Trafficking, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Weapons - AFI or POAFA Altering Firearm Identification or Possession of Altered Firearm.  Bond for Hall was set at $28,000.00.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "I would like to thank the DeKalb County Narcotics Unit and Jackson County Narcotics Unit for working together to get this poison off of the streets.  This is a great example of why having a good working relationship with our neighboring agencies is so important.  And we are so thankful that we have these relationships." 

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - During the month of June, DeKalb County Deputies, Narcotics Agents, Officers with Collinsville, Fyffe, Powell, Sylvania, Ider and Crossville Police Department charged 36 with drug related charges. 

On Friday, June 2nd, Officers with Fyffe Police Department conducted a traffic stop on County Road 50, finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine.  Kathy Ann Johnson (50 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

On Saturday, June 3rd, Officers with Powell Police Department responded to apartments on Traylor Street on a Domestic Violence call.  While looking for identification, drug paraphernalia was found.  Mitchell Edward Kyle (57 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Contempt of Court. 

Also, on Saturday, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 68 and County Road 179 finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Gregory Wayne Ferguson (50 of Boaz) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 4 warrants for Failure to Appear.

On Monday, June 5th, Officers with Sylvania Police Department, along with DeKalb County Deputies, responded to County Road 121 of a male walking in the roadway who appeared to be intoxicated.  When officers arrived, they found William Darrin Blevins (58 of Fort Payne) to be in possession of synthetic marijuana as well as being intoxicated.  Blevins was charged with Publix Intoxication, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Wednesday, June 7th, DeKalb County Deputies, along with Officers from Crossville and Collinsville Police Departments, conducted a traffic stop.  During the stop, it was found that one of the subjects had active warrants.  A search resulted in the discovery of methamphetamine, controlled pills and drug paraphernalia.  William Stuart Barfield (61 of Albertville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs and Failure to Appear.  Tiffany Lachea Sims (32 of Albertville) and James Bret Goble (32 unknown address) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs.

On Thursday, June 8th, Narcotics Agents responded to a residence on Newman Drive in Rainsville after several complaints of drug use going on.  When Agents arrived, they observed several people running through the house.  During a search, kratom, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found.  Elisha Delane Knight (45 of Rainsville) and Dalton Wyatt Jenkins (24 of Higdon) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Failure of Appear.  Amber Marie MaGill (24 of Albertville) and Malachi Emmanuel Vaughn (24 of Dawson) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.  Jerry Ed Buttram (32 of Sylvania) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd. 

On Sunday, June 11th DeKalb County Deputies executed a search warrant at a residence on County Road 328 in Dawson finding methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in the home.  Krystle Nicole Croft (38 of Dawson) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.

Also, on Sunday, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop determining the driver to have active warrants.  During the stop, a field sobriety test was administered, which the driver failed.  The driver was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine.  Whitney Irene Scott (40 of Dawson) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, DUI (controlled substance), Tampering with Physical Evidence and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear. 

Also, on Sunday, DeKalb County Deputies responded to a call of a male walking on Hwy 68 in Crossville.  When the Deputy asked for identification, the subject provided false information and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine.  Felipe Tomas Francisco (23 of Crossville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Giving False ID to Law Enforcement Officer. 

Again, on Sunday, Officers with Sylvania Police Department conducted a traffic stop finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Tiffany Coral Gilbert (39 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Monday, June 12th, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 34, finding the driver to be in possession of marijuana and controlled drugs.  Gell Quincey Haynes (35 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Persons Forbidden to Possess Pistol and Resisting Arrest.

Also, on Monday, Narcotics Agents conducted a traffic stop on Al Hwy 75 with the driver failing to stop, leading agents on a pursuit.  The driver was finally stopped and placed under arrest.  Sandy Marie Morrow (58 of Geraldine) was charged with Attempt to Elude, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd (x2) Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (x3), Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2) and Trafficking in any Illegal Substance. 

On Tuesday, June 13th, Officers with Powell Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Brown Street finding the driver to be in possession of cocaine.  Damone Jamyle Walker (26 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd. 

Also, on Tuesday, Narcotics Agents were executing a search warrant on County Road 283 in the Collinsville area finding over 15 grams of methamphetamine.  Steven Ray Willingham (43 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance.  Wendy Cherylene Leatherwood (49 of Attalla) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2) and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Randall Clark Smith (55 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.  Tracy Dwayne Johnson (62 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (x2).

Again, on Tuesday, DeKalb County Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop involving a motorcycle, the driver refused to stop, which led to a short pursuit.  Eventually the driver pulled into a residence on Hwy 75.  The driver was found in possession of hydrocodone, which he did not have a prescription for.  Jake Samuel Gilbreath (27 of Sylvania) was charged with Attempt to Elude, Resisting Arrest and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance. 

On Thursday, June 15th, Officers with Sylvania Police Department conducted a traffic stop on County Road 102 finding the driver to be in possession of 21 grams of methamphetamine, Percocet, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  Phillip Chance Culpepper (29 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Non-Payment of Child Support and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.

On Friday, June 23rd, Officers with Crossville Police Department responded to a call of an individual that was slumped over the steering wheel of a vehicle on County Road 12.  Once the driver was awake, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Thomas Benjamin Cates (46 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.

On Saturday, June 24th, while at a traffic accident on Hwy 117, in Mentone, Narcotics Agents found the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine.  Robby Dean Williams (54 of Phil Campbell) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Also, on Saturday, Officers with Ider Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.  Joe Patrick Veal (48 of Henagar) and Emily Edwards Love (45 of Henagar) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On Monday, June 26th, Narcotics Agents were in the area of Short Cut Drive in Henagar when they spotted Kenny Ladon Blalock (56 of Henagar) who they knew had active warrants.  When Agents pulled in to the driveway, Blalock and two others ran into the residence.  Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found inside.  Blalock was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.  Toby Lynn Hudgins (50 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Escape 3rd.  Cynthia Lynn Gregory (52 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance. 

Also, on Monday, Narcotics Agents executed a search warrant at a residence in the Powell area finding methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia inside the residence.  Zane Michael Allen (30 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On Wednesday, June 28th, Officers with Collinsville Police Department conducted a traffic stop finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine.  Andrew Alan Hindbaugh (36 of Collinsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Contempt of Court.

On Thursday, June 29th, while following up on a call about drug activity, on County Road 671 in Henagar, Agents found marijuana and drug paraphernalia inside the residence.  Sarah Jo Lewis (28 of Henagar) and Malik Donte Muhammad (27 of Henagar) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

FORT PAYNE, Ala. - On July 6, 2023, Investigators with DeKalb County Sheriff's Office arrested Thomas Wesley Harris (28 of Crossville) on 16 felony charges for breaking into multiple vehicles at Matheny's Bridge.  Harris is being charged with Theft of Property 3rd (x8), Breaking/Entering Vehicle (x4) and Illegal Possession of Credit/Debit Card (x4). 

Harris is also a suspect in cases in Jackson and Marshall County involving the same crimes.  He is being held on a $70,000.00 bond in the DeKalb County Detention Center.  The investigation is ongoing, and more charges are expected to be added.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: "When enjoying natural swimming areas in Alabama please consider leaving personal items at home or take them with you to the area you plan to enjoy.  Criminals look for easy targets and unattended vehicles are at the top of the list."

"God Bless!" Concluded Sheriff Welden.