According to Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver, there have been a series of successful drug-related arrests throughout the month of October. Theses arrest underscore our dedication to keeping Cherokee County a safe and healthy place to live, work and play.

Throughout October, deputies from patrol and investigations arrested 16 individuals on charges related to drug possession, trafficking, and distribution. Substances seized include methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, along with paraphernalia and other items.

Sheriff Shaver commented, these arrests are a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our deputies and the invaluable cooperation from the community members who share our commitment to a drug-free Cherokee County.

The following is a list of those arrested:

Jamal Darius Strong, of Cedartown, UPODP, UPOM 1st, UPID x2

Ronald Jackson Rigby, of Gaylesville, UPOM 1st and UPODP

Connor Nicholas Smith, of Guntersville, UPOM 1st UPODP

Michael Devoid Powell, of Rome, UPOM 2nd and UPODP

Gary Joe Elders, of Cedar Bluff, UPOM 2nd and UPODP

Austin Bruan Chambers, of Rainbow City, UPOM 2nd and UPODP

Edward Dewayne Sexton, of Centre, UPOCS

Justin Lee Thompson, UPOCS, UPODP, Attempting to Elude and Resisting Arrest.

Patrick Haswell Williams, of Cedar Bluff, UPOCS and UPODP

Antionio Kittrell Lewis, of Centre, UPOCS

Gerald Ray Hughes, of Fort Payne, Trafficking Marijuana, UPOCS x4 UPODP

Susan Michelle Cochran, of Fort Payne, UPOCS and UPODP

Aaron Jabe Whorton, of Centre, UPOCS, UPODP, Attempting to Elude, and Tampering with evidence.

Cody James Word, of Jacksonville, UPOCS, UPODP, and Tampering with evidence

Charles Gary Neal, of Gaylesville, Trafficking Meth and UPODP

Jamie Lester Ball, of Centre, Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute and UPDOP

Sheriff Shaver reminds people to report any suspicious activity. Community safety is a shared responsibility, and your information may help prevent future crimes. Anonymous tips can be made on our website, cherokeecountyalsheriff.com.