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https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/269/Sheriffs-Office

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office NC, 577 Regal Street, Murphy, NC (2026)

06/07/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 6, 2026

On June 5, 2026, Sheriff Chris Wood announced that the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office has been actively searching for 52-year-old Brett Austin Phillips of Andrews, North Carolina, after he was reported missing by family members.

On the morning of June 6, 2026, family members received information from a friend of Mr. Phillips regarding an area off Tatham Gap Road in the U.S. Forest Service property that Mr. Phillips was known to frequent. Family members traveled to the area and located Mr. Phillips and his vehicle approximately one-tenth of a mile off the roadway along a trail.

Tragically, Mr. Phillips was found deceased.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office was immediately notified, and investigators, patrol deputies, and administrative personnel responded to the scene. An investigation into Mr. Phillips' death is ongoing. At this time, no foul play is suspected; however, the investigation remains active pending the results of an examination by the North Carolina Medical Examiner's Office.

Sheriff Wood and the members of the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office extend their deepest condolences to Mr. Phillips' family and loved ones during this difficult time. We ask our community to keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Andrews Police Department, the Valleytown Fire Department, the US Forestry Service Police and all others that aided in the search for Mr. Phillips and the subsequent investigation of his death.

Additional information will be released if appropriate as the investigation continues.

06/07/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 6, 2026

CHEROKEE COUNTY DEPUTY ASSAULTED DURING A WELFARE CHECK

On June 6, 2026, at approximately 2:48 p.m., Deputy Michael Webb was dispatched to a residence on Hyatt Creek Road in Marble to conduct a welfare check.

Upon arrival, Deputy Webb made contact with Danny Walter Cochran and advised him that he was checking on his well-being at the request of a concerned family member. During the brief conversation, Cochran suddenly and without provocation assaulted Deputy Webb, striking him in the head and face.

Deputy Webb attempted to take Cochran into custody for the assault, resulting in a physical struggle on the front porch. During the altercation, Cochran attempted to remove Deputy Webb’s firearm from its holster. Utilizing skills gained through law enforcement training, Deputy Webb was able to retain control of his weapon and prevent it from being taken.

Although Deputy Webb gained control of Cochran, he continued to actively resist arrest. Officer Gamble of the Andrews Police Department arrived as the first assisting officer and helped Deputy Webb safely take Cochran into custody.

Cochran was transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center and charged with:

• Felony Assault Inflicting Physical Injury on a Law Enforcement Officer
• Felony Attempted Larceny
• Resisting a Public Officer

Following his appearance before a magistrate, Cochran was ordered held without bond.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated:
“This incident is a reminder of the dangers our deputies face every day. No call is ever routine. We are extremely thankful that Deputy Webb is safe and that his training enabled him to respond effectively during a life-threatening situation. We ask that you continue to keep the men and women of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office in your thoughts and prayers.”

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

06/05/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 5, 2026

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Man on Multiple Child S*x Offense Charges

Murphy, NC – Following an investigation that began in January 2026, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Aaron Boyd Young on serious felony charges involving the sexual victimization of a child.

On June 4, 2026, new allegations were received by investigators. A swift and thorough follow-up investigation was immediately launched, which included conducting additional interviews and gathering supporting evidence. On June 5, 2026, investigators obtained arrest warrants charging Young with the following offenses:

• Two Counts of Statutory S*x Offense with a Child by an Adult
• One Count of Indecent Liberties with a Child

Young was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Cherokee County Detention Center under a no-bond status.

Following the arrest, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence where Young was staying. Multiple electronic devices were seized as evidence. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional charges are possible.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “Protecting the children of Cherokee County is one of our highest priorities. I am proud of our investigators’ swift and professional work in this case. We will continue to pursue justice for victims and hold offenders accountable. Anyone with additional information is strongly encouraged to contact the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.”

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office at (828) 837-3526.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

06/05/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 5, 2026

On May 18, 2026, a Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Agent initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling along US 64 after observing the vehicle fail to maintain its lane of travel.

During the course of the stop, the detective was granted consent to search the vehicle. During the search, the detective located a purse inside the passenger compartment containing methamphetamine, digital scales, cash, packaging materials commonly associated with the distribution of narcotics, and three fi****ms. One of the fi****ms was determined to have been reported stolen.

As a result of the investigation, Terrie Dale Hogsed, 66, of Tennessee, was arrested and charged with:
• Possession of a Stolen Firearm
• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, and Deliver Methamphetamine

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “This arrest highlights the proactive work being done by our Narcotics Division to keep dangerous drugs and illegal fi****ms out of our communities. The combination of methamphetamine trafficking and stolen fi****ms presents a significant threat to public safety, and we remain committed to aggressively targeting those responsible for bringing these crimes into Cherokee County.”

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

06/05/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 5, 2026

Cherokee County Deputies Safely Apprehend Suspect After Reckless High-Speed Flight

On June 5, 2026, at approximately 12:54 p.m., an agent with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a 2019 GSX-R1000 motorcycle in the area of White's Plaza. The motorcycle was not displaying a registration plate. The operator refused to stop and fled at a high rate of speed, estimated to be between 120 and 130 mph. Traffic in the area was moderate, and the motorcycle was observed lane-splitting and weaving through traffic, creating a significant danger to motorists and the public.

Recognizing the substantial risk posed by the suspect's reckless actions, the pursuing agent terminated the pursuit in accordance with public safety considerations. The agent broadcasted the motorcycle's last known location and a description of the operator, allowing deputies to safely saturate the area and continue the search without unnecessarily endangering the public.

A short time later, Deputy Michael Webb located the motorcycle on Airport Road and was able to get the motorcycle stopped without incident. The operator was identified as Kendrick Ashton Macleod, 20, and was taken into custody.

Macleod was charged with the following offenses:
• Felony Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle
• Reckless Driving to Endanger
• Speeding
• No Operator's License
• Fail to Heed Lights or Siren
• Drive Motor Vehicle with No Registration

Macleod was set a secured bond in the amount of $1,000.00 by a North Carolina Magistrate.

Sheriff Wood praised the deputies for exercising sound judgment, prioritizing public safety, and safely bringing the incident to a successful conclusion.
"Incidents like this demonstrate the dangers created when individuals choose to flee from law enforcement," said Sheriff Wood. "Our deputies remained focused on protecting the public while working to identify and apprehend the suspect. Their professionalism and restraint helped prevent what could have been a tragic outcome."

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

06/05/2026

Our office is currently looking for Brett Austin Phillips. If you have any information please contact us at (828) 837-2589 or Cherokee County Dispatch at (828) 835-3144.

06/04/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2026

Cherokee County Deputies Arrest Suspect Following Investigation into Stolen Motorcycle Pursuit

CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. — The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect following an investigation into a pursuit involving a stolen motorcycle that occurred on May 11, 2026.

On May 11, a Narcotics Agent with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black dual-sport motorcycle traveling on West U.S. Highway 64. The operator failed to stop and fled, leading deputies on a pursuit that reached speeds of approximately 90 miles per hour.

The motorcycle traveled into the area of Walker Road before leaving the roadway and entering a wooded trail, bringing the vehicle pursuit to an end. Deputies continued the search on foot and located the motorcycle abandoned approximately one-quarter mile into the woods. A check of the vehicle identification number revealed the motorcycle had been reported stolen out of Polk County, TN.

Following an investigation, agents identified Justin Ray Roberts as the operator of the motorcycle and obtained warrants for his arrest.

Subsequently, while conducting proactive patrol operations in the area of Culberson Church Road, Deputy Chris Baty conducted a traffic stop and observed Roberts in the passenger seat of the vehicle. Roberts was taken into custody on the outstanding Cherokee County warrants. Cherokee County E-911 further advised that Roberts was also wanted on felony warrants from another state.

Roberts was transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center, where he was served with the outstanding warrants and criminal processes. He is currently being held under a $20,000 secured bond.

Justin Ray Roberts is charged with the following:

Felony Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle
Felony Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle
Multiple Misdemeanor Charges
Fugitive from Justice

Sheriff Chris Wood praised the efforts of the patrol division, stating: "Our patrol division is the backbone of the agency. These men and women are out on the streets of Cherokee County 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Thanks to the proactive work of this deputy, a reckless offender was taken into custody."

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

06/04/2026

CHEROKEE COUNTY SHERIFF CHRIS WOOD ATTENDS NORTH CAROLINA SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION’S 2026 LEGISLATIVE DAY AT GENERAL ASSEMBLY

This week, the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association hosted sheriffs and their personnel from all corners of the state for their annual Legislative Day at the General Assembly in Raleigh.

Sheriff Wood of Cherokee County was proud to be able to attend the event. Commenting on the experience, Sheriff Wood said, “The decisions being made in Raleigh have a real impact on public safety in our counties, so I am grateful to be able to be the voice of the people of Cherokee County when it comes to criminal justice issues. These relationships we build and maintain during each legislative session ensure that we all share a common goal with our legislators of keeping all of our citizens safe.”

Each year while the legislature is in session, sheriffs and their personnel are invited to join North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association staff and lobbyists at the state capital to meet with legislators. This event allows sheriffs the opportunity to meet face to face with lawmakers to discuss public safety and law enforcement issues.

This year, sheriffs discussed with legislators the necessity that the General Assembly enact legislation to keep THC products out of the hands of minors. Sheriffs across the state continue to see children and others suffer serious illness and effects from buying products that are intoxicating in nature from stores that everyone – even children – can access. Sheriffs also discussed a bill related to robocalls. The bill would make it unlawful for someone to call pretending to be a sheriff or personnel with a law enforcement agency in order to defraud a person for money, a common scam this year in North Carolina.

The sheriffs and their personnel who attended began the day with a meeting with North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association staff before making their way to the General Assembly for their scheduled meetings with their legislators.

North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association President Sheriff Ricky Buchanan of McDowell County was in attendance at Legislative Day and emphasized the importance of sheriffs maintaining positive relationships with lawmakers. “Legislative Day lets us have real, one-on-one conversations with our legislators to let them know what deputies are experiencing in our communities, and what our citizens see as real public safety concerns. It is important for them to hear about the issues directly from the source.”

06/02/2026

Traffic Stop Leads to Search Warrant and Three Arrests in Narcotics Investigation

MURPHY, N.C. — Agents with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Union County Sheriff’s Office (Georgia), concluded a joint narcotics investigation on June 1, 2026, resulting in the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of trafficking quantities of methamphetamine.

During the investigation, Agents conducted surveillance on a residence in Cherokee County. The operation led to a traffic stop along NC Highway 60, where Amanda Lee Edmondson, 44, of Murphy, was found to be in possession of approximately 20 grams of methamphetamine. Edmondson was taken into custody, and Agents subsequently obtained a search warrant for a residence located at 7 Page Little Road in Murphy.

With assistance from the Union County Sheriff’s Office, Agents executed the search warrant and recovered trafficking quantities of methamphetamine, along with $1,528 in U.S. currency believed to be connected to illegal drug activity.

As a result of the search, two additional arrests were made. Agents also discovered that a juvenile was residing at the property, leading to additional criminal charges.

Amanda Mary King, 38, of Murphy, is charged with:
• Felony Exposing a Child to a Controlled Substance
• Felony Trafficking in Methamphetamine
• Felony Maintaining a Dwelling for the Sale of Controlled Substances
• Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Amanda Lee Edmondson, of Murphy, is charged with:
• Felony Possession of Methamphetamine

Heather Leigh Hamby, 45, of Murphy, is charged with:
• Possession of Methamphetamine
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Sheriff Chris Wood praised the collaborative effort between agencies and emphasized the importance of protecting the community from illegal drug activity.

“Removing illegal drugs from our community remains a top priority, but ensuring the safety and well-being of our children is even more important. I am grateful for our strong partnership with the Union County Sheriff’s Office and proud of the collaborative work that often takes place behind the scenes. These partnerships are essential in combating the regional drug activity that continues to impact our communities.”

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

06/01/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 1, 2026

Bones found near Burnt Branch Road – Determined to be Animal Remains

MARBLE, N.C. – On Sunday, May 31, 2026, at approximately 7:13 p.m., the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a suspicious incident involving possible human remains on Fairview Road near Burnt Branch Road.

A deputy arrived on scene and was shown a barrel containing bones by a citizen. The deputy was unable to immediately confirm whether the remains were human and requested the on-call investigator to respond.

Multiple officers and detectives from the Sheriff’s Office and Andrews Police Department responded to the scene.

After further examination by investigators and command staff, as well as consultation with the Cherokee County Medical Examiner and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations, officials determined the remains were animal bones, not human.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated: “This call was handled quickly and professionally by our deputies and partnering agencies. We appreciate the community’s vigilance in reporting suspicious activity, and we want everyone to know their safety remains our top priority.”

At no time during this incident was there any threat to the safety of our citizens.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office thanks all responding personnel for their quick and professional response.

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office NC

06/07/2026

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Monday	8am - 5pm
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Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
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