CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, Dec. 29, said it was “proud to share the results of recent proactive enforcement efforts that led to multiple significant drug arrests.”
Sheriff Matt Gentry said the arrests are a direct reflection of deputies being alert, engaged and committed to protecting the people who live and work in Cullman County.
On Dec. 26, during a routine traffic stop, deputies encountered Nathan Whitfield, 42, of Vinemont, who was found to have active warrants.
Deputies allegedly detected the odor of marijuana, which led to a search of the vehicle. That search allegedly uncovered methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Whitfield was taken into custody and charged with trafficking/possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of marijuana, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and larceny (FTA).
On Dec. 27, deputies stopped a vehicle on I-65 northbound at mile marker 307 for a traffic violation.
During the stop, deputies learned that passenger Albert Dragon, 42, of Falkville, had active warrants.
A search of the vehicle allegedly led to the discovery of fentanyl, which Dragon allegedly admitted belonged to him.
He was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute, possession with intent to distribute (FTA), unlawful possession of dangerous drugs (FTA) and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia (FTA).
On Dec. 28, a traffic stop on County Road 222 near Trident Marina turned into another major drug seizure when deputies allegedly discovered trafficking-level amounts of suspected fentanyl, along with distribution-level quantities of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.
Leann Elizabeth Finchum, 32, of Mt. Olive, was arrested and charged with trafficking in fentanyl, unlawful distribution of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.
Gentry said the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office remains diligent year-round during traffic stops and day-to-day routine work to keep the community safe.
“This past week was one of the many demonstrations of deputies remaining alert, focused and aware during potential times of trouble,” Gentry said.
He continued, “This is the work our deputies do every day. Proactive enforcement like this happens daily in Cullman County, and we will continue to aggressively target those who bring illegal drugs into our communities. Our message is clear: drug dealers are not welcome here. If you choose to traffic poison in this county, our deputies will find you, and you will go to jail. I’m extremely proud of the dedication and relentless effort our deputies put in day in and day out to protect our citizens.”
