Proactive patrol and alert teamwork by Fentress County Sheriff’s Office deputies led to a major narcotics arrest following what began as a call for a suspicious vehicle.

Deputies were dispatched to a report of a vehicle parked along a roadway with individuals walking around a nearby fence line. Upon arrival, Deputy Holten Stilts made contact with two males who stated they had run out of gas. A short time later, another citizen had provided fuel for the vehicle. After speaking with both individuals, deputies cleared the scene, and the men were released to go on their way.

Minutes later, Deputy Gage Willis observed the same Honda Accord disregard a stop sign at the intersection of White Oak and Pickett Park Highway. Deputy Willis initiated a traffic stop, during the stop, the driver refused repeated lawful commands to exit the vehicle. The driver was subsequently removed from the vehicle without further incident.

During the investigation, Deputy Willis and Deputy Stilts discovered the driver, identified as Stephens, to be in possession of approximately 55 grams (1.92 ounces) of suspected methamphetamine “ice,” two used syringes, .02 grams of a suspected cocaine/fentanyl mixture, and digital scales which Stephens admitted he used to weigh his narcotics.

Stephens was taken into custody and transported to the Fentress County Justice Center, where he was booked on the following charges:

-Felony Possession of Schedule II (Methamphetamine) with Intent to Sell or Deliver

-Felony Possession of Schedule II (Cocaine/Fentanyl) with Intent to Sell or Deliver

-Felony Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Deliver

-Resisting Stop, Halt, Arrest, Search

-Violation of Traffic Control Device

Assisting in the investigation were Drug Agent Kris Lewallen and Jamestown Police Department Officer Eddie Asberry, whose continued partnership and coordination strengthen the county’s fight against illegal narcotics.

Chief Deputy Hunter Fowler commended his team’s vigilance and professionalism, stating:

“This is a textbook example of proactive law enforcement and the kind of teamwork that makes a real difference. Our deputies are out every day disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs in our communities, and this arrest shows that even routine calls can lead to major seizures when officers stay alert and dedicated to their mission.”

The Fentress County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal drug activity and will continue to work alongside partner agencies to ensure our county remains safe and drug-free.