On July 25, 2025, at approximately 9:08 PM, Officer Gage Gunnels assisted the Fairfield Glade Police Department at a DUI checkpoint on Peavine Road, where they encountered John Edward Russell driving a 1994 White Ford Ranger with non-functional brake lights. Upon contact, Russell admitted his driver’s license was revoked and handed it to Cpl. Ben Griffin.

A check through NCIC revealed Russell had two felony Violation of Probation warrants and a revoked license.

When asked to exit his vehicle, Russell complied but resisted further instructions by attempting to flee and refusing to allow a search. During the search, he repeatedly slammed his head on his car’s hood and later resisted being placed in a patrol vehicle, headbutting Officer Gunnels in the forehead.

After being subdued and placed in the vehicle, Russell kicked the interior, leading to leg shackles being applied. He was transported to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, charged with driving on a revoked license, resisting arrest, and assault on a first responder. Russell’s court date is set for August 18, 2025, at 8:30 AM, with no bond set for the assault charge.