WKRK 105.5 FM 1320 AM

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Timothy G. Henn graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Henn is the son of Stephanie and Peter Henn of Murphy, N.C.

He graduated in 2014 from Hiwassee Dam High School, Murphy, N.C., and earned an associate degree in 2016 from Valencia College, Orlando, Fla.

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Schools. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Cherokee County Schools (CCS) has received multiple requests for public information today and upon consulting with attorneys and law enforcement, the following statement has been cleared for release 02/10/18.

Cherokee County Schools suspended Mr. Thomas Graham from all school duties on January 26th in response to allegations of misconduct. As required by law, any suspension during an investigation is with pay. Mr. Jason Forrister has been acting principal during this time and will continue in that role as long as necessary.

Cherokee County Schools has been working with local and state law enforcement agencies and has fully cooperated with their investigation. Because personnel matters are considered confidential under state law, CCS cannot make any further comment regarding Mr. Graham. Further it is imperative that CCS strive alongside law enforcement agencies to seek the truth and impart fairness to all parties involved.

Student safety is the first priority of Cherokee County Schools and CCS takes the appropriate measures necessary to provide a welcoming and safe atmosphere for all students, staff, parents and volunteers.

Cherokee County Schools would like to thank the state and local law enforcement officials for the professionalism they have demonstrated thus far. CCS will continue to work with law enforcement throughout the entire process.

CCS conducts a thorough background investigation into potential employees during the pre-employment process. If criminal allegations arise during employment CCS works directly with law enforcement to ensure a thorough and fair investigation.

WKRK Note: Booking photo not available at publication time.

UPDATE: Booking photo added 6:05 pm 2/10/18

UPDATE FROM NORTH CAROLINA STATE BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (2/12/18):
The SBI was requested to assist the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 9 regarding a sex offense investigation in which then principal of Hiawassee Dam High School (Murphy, Cherokee County), Thomas Graham, was alleged to have had an inappropriate relationship with a student. The allegations referred to incidents which occurred approximately two years ago. Graham was currently the principal of Murphy High School at the time the report was made to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.

Several interviews have been conducted in the investigation and more are anticipated. On February 5, 2018, a Grand Jury in Cherokee County issued a True Bill of Indictment for Graham for two counts of Indecent Liberties with a student. At the time of the indictment, Graham had been placed on administrative leave from Murphy High School. The investigation is ongoing.

****Missing Person****

Clay County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a missing person last night. Glenn Maurice Hardin has been missing since Saturday afternoon and suffers from dementia. He was last seen wearing a brown corduroy shirt, blue jeans, and tan house shoes. He was driving a 1998, maroon in color, Ford Taurus station wagon, and had his black Dachshund with him when he left.

Mr. Hardin is from Andrews and may be in Cherokee County. If you know of his whereabouts please call the Sheriff’s Office at (828) 389-6354 or your local law enforcement agency.

Part 1

On Friday February 9, 2018, Clay County Investigators responded to Jack Rabbit Road in reference to a body that was discovered in the lake. The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), Clay County Fire and Rescue, and Towns County Dive Team all responded to assist.

Sheriff Davis said the man has been positively identified as Michael Todd Popa. Popa has been missing since December 20, 2017.

This is still an open investigation and Sheriff Davis requests any one that may have further information in reference to this matter to please come forward and speak to investigators.

Part 2

Sheriff Davis said investigators are interested in speaking to the person depicted in this sketch. This person may have been the last person to be with Michael Popa who had been missing since December 20, 2017.

This person and Popa were together sometime between December 18th and 20th when the vehicle they were driving ran out of gas on Hwy 175 in Clay County between the hours of 9 and 11 PM.

Investigators say they were coming from the direction of Georgia on Hwy 175 when this occurred, and they believe a third person brought them fuel.

This man is a white male, in his mid 30’s, 5’9” - 5’11” tall, has short (buzz cut style) brown hair, and a medium build.

Sheriff Davis said he is hoping someone will recognize this man and provide information on who he may be, because he man may have information as to what happened to Michael Popa. If someone knows who he might be or if maybe you were the one that brought gas to them, please call the Sheriff’s Office at (828) 389-6354, or message us on Facebook. You can also send anonymous information to our crime tip email, crimetips@claync.org.

Investigators want to be clear on one thing, they do not believe this man was any part of any wrong doing, but they do believe he may have further information that is helpful to the investigation.

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced that February 16th, 2018 arrest of 38 year old Robert Burl Fletcher III, who listed a Gaston County NC address.

On February 16th, 2018 a patrol officer was dispatched to a business located on US 64 West to investigate a report of individuals acting suspicious and may be involved in the illegal sale of controlled substances. The patrol officer arrived on scene and obtained identifying information from a male and female at the location. At the same time, an investigator of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office arrived to assist in the investigation. Fletcher then started fleeing from the scene and was apprehended a short distance later.

In a search incident to arrest a small amount of suspected methamphetamine and narcotic paraphernalia was found. Fletcher is a convicted sex offender and had two active warrants from Clay and Gaston counties in North Carolina for failure to Notify Change of Address.

Robert Burl Fletcher III was is currently incarcerated in the Cherokee County Detention Center on the following charges POSSESS METHAMPHETAMINE, POSSESS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA, RESISTING PUBLIC OFFICER. Fletcher’s bond for the Cherokee County charges is $15,000.00 secure. Clay and Gaston counties both have holds placed on Fletcher should he make bond.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “We cannot over stress the importance of the Sex Offender Registry laws and their importance in keeping registered offenders in compliance.”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced that February 16th, 2018 arrest of 19 year old Alicia Madison Brooks, of Blairsville Georgia, 32 year old Benjamin Dann Owens, of Blairsville Georgia, and 20 year old Jordan Taylor Hensley also of Blairsville Georgia for violations of the controlled substance statute and violation of various weapon statutes.

On February 16th, 2018 a narcotics detective observed a vehicle make an illegal U Turn on US 64 East near the town limits of Murphy. The narcotics detective followed the vehicle and made a traffic stop in which the vehicle was occupied by Brooks, Owens and Hensley. After the driver of the vehicle refused consent to search the vehicle the narcotics K9 was used and alerted for the presence of illegal narcotics.

During the search of the occupants of the vehicle, syringes and other paraphernalia were located. Additionally, officers located a semi-automatic pistol along with a rifle that appeared to have a silencer on it in the passenger area of the vehicle. During the stop, information was located that Owens was a convicted felon.

Alicia Madison Brooks was brought to the Cherokee County Detention Center and booked for MAINTAIN PLACE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, RESISTING PUBLIC OFFICER, SIMPLE POSSESS SCH VI CS. Brooks was later released on a unsecure bond after appearing in Cherokee County District Court on 02/19/2018.
Benjamin Dann Owens was brought to the Cherokee County Detention Center where a small amount of suspected methamphetamine was found secreted on him. Owens remains incarcerated on a $15,000.00 secure bond on the following charges POSSESS CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE PRISON/JAIL PREMISSES, POSSESSION OF FIREARM BY FELON, PWIMSD METHAMPHETAMINE.

Jordan Taylor Hensley was arrested and charged with RESISTING PUBLIC OFFICER. Hensley posted a $1,000.00 secure bond.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “Again good work by all concerned. The mixture of illegal drugs and firearms, especially by convicted felons, makes for a dangerous situation!”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

The following press release has been issued by Clay County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court of law..

Around midnight on Tuesday February 20, 2018, a Clay County Deputy was conducting a business check on NC Hwy 69 when he observed a man with a flashlight walking around a home nearby.

Sheriff Davis said the deputy approached the man to inquire as to what he was doing. During their conversation the deputy asked the man his name. The man gave a name, but the deputy knew that person and new the man he was talking to was not that person. When the deputy asked him again he gave the name Stephen Kirby, and said he was just walking to a friend’s house.

Due to the man not giving the correct name, the deputy ran his name through dispatch for a routine warrant check. Of course, he came back with warrants. The deputy attempted to place Kirby in handcuffs when he took off running. Another deputy had arrived at this time and after a short foot chase the other deputy was able to head Kirby off and take him into custody.

Once at the jail, a substance that tested positive for methamphetamine was located in Kirby’s boot.

According to Sheriff Davis, Kirby, 34 of Hayesville, was arrested and charged with two counts of Misdemeanor Possession of Stolen Goods, Misdemeanor Larceny, Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Jail, and Resisting Public Officer. He is currently in the Clay County Detention Center on a $16,000 bond, and has a March 5, 2018 court date.

From Town of Murphy Mayor Rick Ramsey:

Hi Folks,

There is a new group that is attempting to better understand why our community has an illegal drug issue, what resources are available to help and how they might become part of the solution. There have been two meetings to date with about 25 in attendance. Parents, grandparents, concerned citizens, a few people with experience on the issue and at least two successfully recovering addicts who are sharing their ongoing success are attending. In addition Chief Justin Jacobs, James Reid and I have attended as well. WKRK covers the meetings live on Facebook Live.

This is not a “Murphy” group, it reaches beyond and out in our surrounding community. I believe we must do all we collectively can to address this problem. This group realizes that all communities are facing the same issue and are looking for best ways to prevent middle school children and up from becoming victims. They are looking for safe groups, organizations, etc. that will provide a safe, fun, interesting environment for children of all ages. Question: what is there to do for kids in the evenings and weekends that is safe and fun? Organized sports is a partial answer for only some. The group is also strongly interested in what resources are available to both educate and participate in everything to do with addiction treatment and recovery for all who are already victims but are seeking help.

The next meeting is Saturday, March 3 at 1:00pm at the Murphy Bible Church (Fellowship Hall downstairs.) The address is 169 Smith Hollow Road, Murphy, NC (across from the Big D Store on Hwy 64 West.) Please share this with any and all that may be interested in participating, from average citizens to those who have knowledge and experience in ways that can succeed in helping.

Since becoming Mayor, I’ve had many conversations with citizens about our drug issue. People of all ages are scared, isolated and living behind locked doors that they will not open. People are very hesitant to notify law enforcement for fear of reprisal from the dealers. This “war” will require a united and very vocal front of a large number of citizens that will visibly stand together and send the strong message that our community will no longer tolerate drug dealers doing business in our neighborhoods.

If you have read this far I thank you for your time. Please join if you can and share this invitation far and wide. It will be important to simply come and listen whether you have something to share or not.

I hope to see you on March 3 at 1:00.

Rick

The Cherokee County Department of Social Services has received additional funding for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and will be accepting applications from Cherokee County residents beginning immediately. The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) provides a one-time annual vendor payment to help eligible families pay their heating expense.

Any household who has not received assistance this program year (beginning December 2017) can potentially receive benefits through March 31st 2018 or until funds are exhausted.

If you wish to apply for LIEAP, then you will need to come to Cherokee County DSS at 4800 W US Highway 64, Murphy, North Carolina in order to complete an application. Office hours are 8:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, except State holidays. If you have questions regarding the LIEAP program or the application process, please call the Cherokee County Department of Social Services at 837-7455 ext 239.

LIEAP funds cannot pay bills in a deceased person’s name or in the name of a minor child.

Eligibility for the Low Income Energy Assistance program is based on certain non-financial and financial requirements. Each applicant household must meet all requirements. Income limits for LIEAP is equal to or less than 130% of the current poverty level. Benefits are based on the household’s size and income at the time of application. Benefits range from $200 thru $400.00.

Information to bring with you: Social Security Number for all household members, verification of your primary heat source, including the account number, verification of your income for the month prior to application, and your most recent bank statement.

The following press release has been issued by Macon County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Detectives with the Macon County Sheriffs Office Special Victims Unit have arrested a Franklin man on multiple sex crimes against children. Dennis Mannel-Porzel, age 36, was arrested after the crimes were reported and an investigation was initiated. Multiple interviews were conducted by Juvenile Detectives including interview with the suspect.

Sheriff Robert Holland states, “This is an ongoing investigation that involves multiple children. We are limited to what we can release at this time due to the fact we don’t want to say anything that may hinder the investigation. We appreciate the efforts of our investigators who have worked around the clock gathering evidence and conducting interviews with many individuals including an interview with the suspect. District Attorney Ashley Welch’s Office and the MCSO will continue their investigation into this matter.

Suspect has been arrested following his interview and additional charges are forthcoming:

Stat sex offense with child by adult (felony)
Stat sex offense with child by adult (felony)
Stat sex offense with child by adult (felony)
Stat sex offense with child by adult (felony)
Stat sex offense with child by adult (felony)
Stat sex offense with child by adult (felony

Secured bond $1,000,000.00
court date 03/15/2018

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced that March 01st, 2018 arrest of 33 year old Jennifer Renee Ploof, of Rome Georgia and 41 year old Dustin Eugene Mcclure of Marble North Carolina for charges involving the trafficking of methamphetamine.

On March 01st, 2018 a K-9 Deputy with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office while on patrol observed the vehicle Ploof and Mcclure were occupying, speeding and initiated a traffic stop. The vehicle failed to immediately stop at which time another deputy arrived to assist with the stop. While deputies were attempting to stop the vehicle the passenger was observed throwing a plastic bag from the window.

Once the vehicle was stopped and upon approaching the vehicle the Deputies observed a crystalline substance on the passenger. The deputies also recovered the plastic bag thrown from the vehicle which contained a quantity of a crystalline substance. Both the substance on the passenger and from the bag recovered were tested and produced a positive result for Methamphetamine. An additional amount of crystalline substance was recovered from the floor and door of the vehicle, along with digital scales. Approximately 34 grams or a little over 1 ounce of methamphetamine was seized during the arrest.

Jennifer Renee Ploof was booked into the Cherokee County Detention Center for TRAFFIC IN METHAMPHETAMINE, MAINTAIN PLACE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, and POSSESS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA. She was released after making a $25,000.00 secure bond. She has a March 06th 2018, District Court date.

Dustin Eugene Mcclure was booked into the Cherokee County Detention Center and remains under a $25,000.00 secure bond for TRAFFIC IN METHAMPHETAMINE, MAINTAIN PLACE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, and POSSESS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA. Mcclure has a March 06th, 2018 court date.

Sheriff Palmer stated “Another battle won in our war on drugs in Cherokee County. What was taken off the street today potentially cost these dealers a little over $3,000.00, but the amount is immeasurable when looking at the potential lives that could be saved.”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced the March 4th, 2018 arrest of 36-year-old James Donald Taylor II, of Andrews North Carolina for Second Degree Murder.

On March 4th, 2018 the Cherokee County 911 Communications Center received a call for service to an address in Andrews, North Carolina. The nature of the call was that a female inside the residence had been shot. While law enforcement and emergency services personnel were en route to the scene, further information became known that Taylor had fled the scene in a small unknown make and model vehicle. Additional information was later given that Taylor was still armed.

Information was broadcast giving information concerning the make and model of vehicle that Taylor was occupying. A short time later, a deputy with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office observed the vehicle inside the town limits of Murphy. A felony stop was initiated which included several officers of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, and Murphy Police Department.

During the arrest of Taylor, information was later made known that the victim was deceased. Investigators with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by Agents of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation worked late into the night continuing the investigation and seizing several items of evidence from the Andrews, North Carolina residence.

Taylor has been booked into the Cherokee County Detention Center on the charge of Second Degree Murder. Currently Taylor has no bond.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “This investigation is in its early stages as we continue to collect information. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and the community as we all experience this loss. We appreciate the assistance that has been provided by the Murphy Police Department and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case, or to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law, to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

The following press release has been issued by Town of Murphy Police Department. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

On Monday, March 5, 2018 at approximately 3:11 pm, a Murphy Police Officer noticed a white Dodge truck traveling west on Valley River Avenue at Hilton Street. The vehicle matched the description of a stolen vehicle from Cherokee County. The Murphy Police Officer notified other Officers of the vehicle's location in an attempt to get the vehicle stopped for investigation. Officers observed the vehicle turning onto Central Street in Murphy traveling toward Valley River Avenue. Officers confirmed that the vehicle was a reported stolen vehicle and initiated their blue lights in an attempt to stop the vehicle and apprehend the suspects. The suspect vehicle refused to stop for Officers containing to travel on Central Street onto Valley River Avenue east bound. Officers pursued the suspect vehicle from the Murphy area to the Hanging Dog community where the chase ended at Hidden Waters Drive on Tribal land after a foot pursuit. Heather Hamby was arrested at the stolen vehicle.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office along with the Cherokee Indian Police assisted with the foot pursuit of the two male suspects that fled from the vehicle. Timothy McCoy the driver was arrested after he fled from the vehicle on foot. The third suspect Jamie Allen was arrested the next day in Murphy.

Timothy Jeffery McCoy was charged with Possession of stolen motor vehicle, Flee/Elude arrest with a motor vehicle, Reckless Driving to Endanger, two counts of speeding in a school zone, Resisting Public Officer. McCoy was also served with a warrant for possession of a stolen vehicle in a previous case. McCoy was given a $15000.00 secured bond by the Cherokee County Magistrate.

Heather Hamby was charged with Possession of stolen vehicle, Resisting Public Officer. Hamby was given a $5000.00 secure bond by the Cherokee County Magistrate.

Jamie Lee Allen was charged with Possession of stolen vehicle, Resisting Public Officer. Allen was given a $5000.00 unsecure bond by the Cherokee County Magistrate.

The Murphy Police Department would like to thank the Cherokee County Emergency 911 Dispatch, Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, Cherokee Indian Police and the North Carolina Highway Patrol for assistance in this situation in an attempt to bring the suspects to justice.

Official Press Release

Date: March 8th, 2018
Time: 12:02 pm
Location: Wal-Mart Supercenter
Suspect/s: Pending Further

At or around 12:02 pm on March 8th, 2018, the Cherokee County 911 Dispatch Center received a call from the Wal-Mart Supercenter Management Team advising of a bomb threat inside of their store. The bomb threat was found in the women's bathroom in one of the stalls. Upon law enforcement arrival on scene, a brief sweep was conducted in the store. At this time it was determined by Wal-Mart Supercenter Management to evacuate the store per their protocol for everyone's safety.

Upon searching the store, nothing was able to be located. During this time, the Asheville Police Department (Bomb Squad Division) was contacted in reference to assisting us. After speaking with them regarding their concerns and speaking with the Wal-Mart Supercenter's Management, it was determined that the store would reopen shortly after 1:00 pm. It is our understanding that a similar incident had happened at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Weaverville, NC earlier this week. At this time, we are still reviewing surveillance footage.

At this time, we cannot release any further information on the actual threat itself due to further investigation. This investigation will remain open until otherwise noted. We will keep the public advised of any changes in the investigation.

"The Murphy Police Department would like to thank the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, Cherokee County 911 Dispatch Center, Cherokee County EMS, Cherokee County Emergency Management, Murphy Volunteer Fire Department (Station 11) and the Asheville Police Department (Bomb Squad Division) for their assistance in this matter. We would also like to thank the shoppers and employees at the Wal-Mart Supercenter during this time for remaining orderly during the evacuation. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused anyone."

Thank You,
Justin J. Jacobs
Chief of Police

Teammates Storm and Jimmy Worley, both of Murphy, won $250 for the biggest largemouth bass weighing in at 8.08 pounds during Tri-County Community College's 2017 tournament.

With promises of more than $3,500 in prize money for competing participants, the Tri-County Community College Foundation will hold its 10th Annual Fishing for Scholarships Tournament on Saturday, April 7 at Lake Chatuge in Hayesville.

“Our annual fishing tournament is one of our most popular and well-attended events,” said Dotie Stafford-Ortega, director of academic success and student engagement. “We always enjoy seeing our anglers coming back year after year to compete and support this event. Last year we had more than 50 teams compete, including several out-of-state residents.”

The Tri-County Bass Club and Tri-County Community College Foundation coordinate the annual tournament. Proceeds from the registration fees will provide two $1,000 scholarships for future Tri-County Community College students.

“Our prizes are spread out over varying categories, including first through fifth place overall, and one for biggest spotted and largemouth bass and smallest fish each,” Stafford-Ortega said.

According to Stafford-Ortega, the tournament is first come, first serve for blast off spots conditional on a paid registration fee, so anyone interested in participating should not delay in registering for the event.

Registration for the event is currently open, with the registration fee being set at $90 until March 27, with fees rising to $100 starting March 28. The tournament is set to begin at 7 a.m. on April 7, with on-site registration closing at 6:40 a.m.

The tournament is for two-person teams, using artificial lures only.

For more information regarding the Tri-County Community College Foundation’s annual fishing tournament, or to register for the event, please contact Stafford-Ortega at 835-4208.

The following press release has been issued by Clay County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presume innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff Davis said he is pleased to announce that after a string of thefts; investigators have the man responsible in jail.

There have been a series of thefts since the first of the year, and they all pointed back to one man, Stephen Michael Kirby. Investigators have been investigating these crimes that all occurred at residences on or around NC Hwy 69 for two months now. But all the pieces started coming together when Kirby was arrested on February 20, 2018, sneaking around a residence on NC Hwy 69.

Sheriff Davis said through investigative efforts, not only is Kirby in jail, several items of property have been recovered and turned over to their rightful owners.

Kirby, 34 of Hayesville, has been arrested and charged with three counts of Felony Larceny, four counts of Felony Breaking and Entering, two counts of Felony Conspiracy to Commit Larceny, Felony Obtain Property by False Pretense, Injury to Personal Property, and Misdemeanor Larceny. He is currently in custody in the Clay County Detention Center on a $40,000 bond.

Official Press Release

Date: March 15th or 16th, 2018
Time: Unknown
Location: Murphy River Walk (Leech Place)
Suspect/s: Pending Further Investigation

At or around 4:46 pm, the Murphy Police Department responded to the Murphy River Walk (Leech Place) in reference to vandalism that had already occurred on the walk boards. The graffiti consisted of spray painted items (sensitive in nature) and a racial slur, which we will not list at this time. The covered bridge had also been vandalized a few weeks prior and had already been repaired. Both investigations are still pending and we will keep the public informed of any changes.

"The Murphy Police Department would ask the general public if they have seen any suspicious people in the area prior to this event. We would like to thank Mr. Eddie Sylvester and Mr. Jim Sullivan for their quick response in cleaning up the graffiti."

"Law enforcement relies on the public's help more than people realize. If you see something, say something. We found out this incident had occurred through various posts and discussions on Facebook. No one ever called us to report it. This will not be tolerated in the Town of Murphy."

Thank You,
Justin J. Jacobs
Chief of Police

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced that March 13th, 2018 arrest of 55-year-old Keith Charles Celebreeze, Sr. of Murphy, North Carolina in connection with making threats via social media and emails.

For the past several months numerous threatening and demeaning emails and social media postings were sent to individuals of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office as well as individuals employed with the District Attorney’s Office in Waynesville. The State Bureau of Investigation conducted an investigation and several charges were taken out on Celebreeze. At some point in the investigation Celebreeze had failed to make a scheduled court appearance.

Celebreeze surrendered himself to the Cherokee County Detention Center for the following charges: FAILURE TO APPEAR ON MISDEMEANOR X 3, EXTORTION X 2, and INTIMIDATING WITNESS X 2. He has a $357,000.00 secure bond and has a April 3rd, 2018 District Court date.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “We should remember with the right of free speech we have a responsibility not to infringe on the rights of others and we will hold you accountable.”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced that March 15th, 2018 arrest of 37-year-old Adrian Montez Austin, of Andrews, North Carolina for violations of the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry.

On March 1st of this year, a complaint was made with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office that Austin had established a residence the complainant felt was too close to the High School in Andrews, North Carolina.

Deputies with the Patrol Division and Investigations Division worked together and were able to obtain evidence that Austin had established a residence approximately 290 feet from the Andrews High School, as well as moving from Clay County and failing to notify of his new address.

During the investigation, information was discovered that indicated that Austin was involved in the illegal sale of controlled substances and had possibly involved young teen age juvenile females.

Austin was arrested at his Andrews North Carolina residence and incarcerated in the Cherokee County Detention Center for 2 counts of Violation of the North Carolina General Statutes pertaining to the Sex Offender Registry. He is currently under a $15,000.00 secure bond and has a March 27th, 2018 court date.

Austin’s arrest was part of Operation Southern Impact II where a total of 76 people were arrested, and 13 children were rescued or identified as victims during a mutually coordinated operation between eight southeastern states. The joint, proactive event, Operation Southern Impact II, was coordinated by nine Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces in those eight states and focused on persons who possess and distribute child pornography and those who are sexually exploiting children in other ways using technology and the internet.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “As you can see this is just one of the reasons that we are so diligent in our monitoring of Sex Offenders and why we have partnered with our State and Federal Partners to keep our innocents safe.”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

The following press release has been issued by Cherokee County Sheriff's Office. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Murphy, NC— Sheriff Derrick Palmer announced the March 22nd, 2018 arrest of Dustin Eugene Mcclure, a 41-year-old white male of Marble, North Carolina and 36-year-old Timothy Robert Norton of Candler, North Carolina for possessing a trafficking amount of methamphetamine.

On March 22, 2018, detectives with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit provided information to the North Carolina Probation and Parole that the Marble residence of Mcclure possibly had stolen property and illegally possessed controlled substances.

Upon arriving at the Marble residence, stolen property and drug paraphernalia were observed in plain view. Detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence and conducted a search of the property. As a result an excess of 117 grams of Methamphetamine was seized along with 2 bottles of suspected steroids, a bottle of suspected MDMA capsules, Marijuana seeds, stolen property, and numerous items of drug paraphernalia.

Mcclure was arrested and taken to the Cherokee County Detention Center where he was charged with: TRAFFIC IN METHAMPHETAMINE, PWIMSD METHAMPHETAMINE, MAINTAIN PLACE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, POSSESSION OF STOLEN GOODS, POSSESS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA. Mcclure is currently being held on a $110,000.00 secure bond and is expected in Cherokee County District Court on March 27th, 2018.

Norton was arrested and taken to the Cherokee County Detention Center where he was charged with TRAFFIC IN METHAMPHETAMINE, PWIMSD METHAMPHETAMINE, MAINTAIN PLACE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, POSSESSION OF STOLEN GOODS, POSSESS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA. Norton is currently being held on a $110,000.00 secure bond and is expected in Cherokee County District Court on March 27th, 2018.

Sheriff Palmer stated, “This was a pretty fair amount of dope taken off the street, the little over 4 ounces or nearly a quarter pound has an approximate street value of a little over $10,000.00. Good working with Probation and Parole to take these two down.”

Sheriff Palmer asks if you should have any information concerning this case or any other case to report suspicious activity and suspected violations of the law to please call 828-837-3144 or submit a tip at crime.tips@cherokeecounty-nc.gov.

Henn Graduates Basic Military Training

Murphy High School Principal Suspended for Allegations of Misconduct

Sheriff's Office Searching for Missing Person

Body found in lake at Clay County; Sheriff's Office seeks man in hopes of gathering information

Absconding Sex Offender Arrested After Short Foot Chase

Three arrested for drugs and guns

Business check leads to drugs and stolen property

Illegal Drug Use: Be a part of the solution

Cherokee County Department of Social Services Low Income Energy Assistance

Franklin man arrested for multiple sex crimes against children

Pair charged with trafficking in methamphetamine

Andrews man charged with murder

Murphy to Hanging Dog Stolen Vehicle Chase

Threat in women's restroom stall leads to Walmart evacuation

College plans 10th annual fishing tournament

Man arrested after string of thefts

Vandalism on Murphy River Walk

Murphy Man Charged for Threats

Sex Offender Charged for Living too Close to School

Two arrested on drug charges