Last week, deputies went to conduct a casual encounter with Shawn Sammons, age 50, in Cumberland County. Deputies stated in their report that they have had multiple citizen complaints pertaining to Shawn and his involvement in the criminal element of narcotics, specifically in the Lake Tansi area. After learning he was a convicted felon and was on state probation out of Blount County, they thought this was necessary.

After knocking on the door, a female identified as 42-year-old Lanna Arthur stated he was at the current residence and agreed to speak with the deputy outside. After the deputy asked if it would be okay if he could search inside, Shawn stated he would rather him not. Shawn denied using narcotics recently and mentioned he had completed a rehab program.

Since he is on state probation, a search was allowed. Shawn and Lanna were also suspects in a shed burglary on January 2, 2023.

While outside waiting for other deputies, Shawn handed over a marijuana pipe and “rolling papers” to the deputy.  Once the search began,  deputies observed several items that were indicative of Heroin use lying on the kitchen table and around the kitchen area.

In the bedroom, was a Black and Decker weed eater and chainsaw, that matched the description from the previous shed burglary. Deputies located two firearms, one with the serial number ground off, to which Shawn denied knowing they were at the residence.

While searching the shed located on the property, deputies located a grass catcher that matched the one that was stolen. After locating this, Shawn alleged to deputies, if they did not charge him, he would tell them where the other items are that were stolen. After deputies told him that was not an option, he admitted items were located at Lanna’s mother’s house.

When deputies went over to Lanna’s mother’s shed, there was a new lock on it and with her mother’s permission, were able to enter. Insider was numerous items that had been stolen from the burglary on January 2.

All evidence was photographed and all stolen property was returned to the owner.

Shawn Sammons and Lanna Arthur were transported to CCSO for booking.

Shawn was charged with:

• Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• Alteration of a Serial Number
• Theft of Property, and Burglary

Lanna was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drugs.