Probe results in meth arrests

By MIKE WEST
Courier Editor

A trio of suspects were arrested and charged with methamphetamine-related charges following a month-long investigation by the Cannon County Sheriff's Office.

Arrested were Steven Chad Evans, David Allen Wooten Jr. and Alicia Antionette Gonzales. A court date was set for August 16 in General Sessions Court.

Evans was charged with manufacturing/selling/delivery of a schedule II drug (meth) and possession of drug paraphernalia. Wooten was charged with manufacturing/selling/delivery of a schedule II drug (meth), driving while in possession of meth, driving on a revoked license and possession of a schedule VI drug. Gonzales was charged with manufacturing/selling/delivery of a schedule II drug (meth), introduction of drugs into a penal institution and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Investigator Brandon Gullett launched an investigation into Steven Chad Evans who was allegedly selling methamphetamine from his home at 110 College St. in Woodbury.

Gullett had obtained Evans' phone number and contacted him by text message.

"During the course of the conversation with Steven Chad Evans a deal was made between myself and Chad for guns that I advised him were stolen out of Warren County for a half ounce of methamphetamine," Gullett reported.

"Once it became time for the deal to take place Chad started to fumble around stating that he didn't have the full amount arranged and that his supplier hadn't arrived with the half ounce," the investigator said.

Gullett attempted to set up another deal with Evans on June 20, but the suspect said he had been cut off by his supplier.

"I then on June 29, 2016 I text Chad stating that I had come into some money and had a grand to spend. Chad then texted me back stating, 'What are you looking for?'" he said.

"Then after two or three recorded phone calls between myself and Chad it was arranged to purchase two eight-balls of methamphetamine for $300 each," Gullett said.

A deal was made to meet Evans and his supplier in the parking lot of McDonald's.

"Once they were observed pulling into the parking lot of McDonald's a traffic stop was made on the vehicle (a Ford F-150). It was found that three subjects were inside the vehicle (Evans, Wooten and Gonzales). I then advised them of their Miranda Rights," Gullett said.

The truck was then searched. A black plastic tube was discovered by Sheriff Darrell Young containing two $5 bills. The folded bills contained a "clear crystal substance" identified as meth.

Meanwhile, Chief Deputy Anthony Young and Jail Administrator Ed Brown were dispatched to Wooten's home on Dug Hollow Road in Bradyville. Woodbury Police officers Chief Lowell Womack and Patrolman John House were sent to secure Evans' home on College Street in Woodbury.

Evans, who had signed a consent to search form, told officers where to look and an assortment of drug paraphernalia was discovered including glass pipes and digital scales.

During a search at Wooten's home, two pill boxes were discovered along with a marijuana roach.

Once transported to the Cannon County Jail, officers discovered a large bag on crystal meth hidden in the pants of Gonzales. The discovery followed repeated inquires on whether or not she had drugs on her person.