Cherokee County Sheriff's Office NC

08/30/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 29, 2026

Deputy Struck by ATV During Pursuit

Cherokee County, NC — On August 27, 2026, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (TN) that deputies were pursuing 33-year-old Thomas Lee Prince, who was operating an ATV on US 64. Polk County deputies subsequently terminated their pursuit on Pack Mountain, and deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division responded to the area.

A Cherokee County deputy assigned to the Special Operations Division located the ATV and attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Felix Road. Prince fled from the attempted traffic stop before the ATV became stuck on the shoulder of the roadway.

The deputy approached Prince and challenged him in the roadway. Prince was able to free the ATV and accelerated toward the deputy, striking him and knocking him to the ground. The deputy was able to return to his patrol vehicle and continue the pursuit.

The pursuit ultimately came to an end on Candy Mountain Road, where a physical altercation ensued. During the altercation, a Taser was deployed, and Prince was subdued and taken into custody.

Prince faces numerous charges, including Felony Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer with a Deadly Weapon, Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer Inflicting Injury, Felony Flee to Elude Arrest, and Felony Resisting.

Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “The first mistake that Mr. Prince made was crossing the Polk County – Cherokee County line. For the past six months, our deputies have shown a level of dedication and motivation that amazes me. In this incident, our deputy’s training kicked in, and he showed excellent resolve in a stressful situation. This type of reckless behavior is unacceptable, and we will not sit passively by while things like this occur. I can’t begin to tell you how thankful I am that our deputy was not seriously injured.”

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

08/28/2026

Partnerships ....

08/26/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

26 August 2026

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Provides Update on Diane Pellington Investigation

CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. — Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood is providing the following clarification regarding the investigation into the February 25 death of Diane Pellington of Cross Creek Lane.

The Sheriff’s Office is aware of recent news reports stating that criminal charges are not expected to be filed against the owner of the dogs suspected of being involved in Ms. Pellington’s death. That characterization was based on a conversation between the case detective and an assistant district attorney before the investigative case file was complete.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office recognizes that the District Attorney’s Office must receive and review a complete case file before a final determination regarding potential charges can be made. The District Attorney’s Office had not received the “hard copy” case file until this afternoon. The case file remains incomplete because the final autopsy report has not yet been received, as well as supplemental statements from other officers involved, and a report from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations which processed the scene. Because of all these factors, it was premature for a statement to be made that there had been a final determination.

Sheriff Wood has requested that the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation conduct an independent review of the case, with the support of elected District Attorney Ashley Hornsby. Once the investigative file is complete and the SBI review has been conducted, the matter will be submitted to the District Attorney’s Office for a comprehensive review and final determination regarding any potential charges.

“Any loss of life is tragic, and our thoughts remain with Ms. Pellington’s family and loved ones,” Sheriff Wood said. “We understand the family’s desire for answers and accountability. It is important, however, that the investigative and prosecutorial process be followed carefully and completely. A preliminary conversation based on incomplete information should not be interpreted as a final charging decision.

Because there were no known video recordings or eyewitnesses to the attack, the available evidence has not conclusively established which, if any, of the three dogs was responsible. The dogs were later euthanized in accordance with applicable procedures.

The Sheriff’s Office will continue to cooperate fully with the SBI and the District Attorney’s Office. No final decision regarding criminal charges will be made until the complete case file, including the final autopsy report and results of the independent review, has been considered in its entirety.

Additional information will be released when appropriate and consistent with the integrity of the investigation and the rights of all involved.

08/25/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2026

Specialty Impaired Driving Enforcement Training Held in Memory of State Representative Mike Clampitt

Cherokee County, NC — Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood and Swain County Sheriff Brian Kirkland, in coordination with the Western North Carolina DWI Task Force, are sponsoring a week-long specialty impaired driving enforcement training designed to enhance the ability of law enforcement officers across Western North Carolina to detect and apprehend impaired drivers.

The training began Tuesday and will continue through Friday, bringing together law enforcement officers and agencies from throughout the region for specialized instruction focused on impaired driving enforcement and highway safety.

This year's training is being conducted in memory of North Carolina State Representative Mike Clampitt, who passed away earlier this year. Representative Clampitt was a strong and longstanding advocate for highway safety, public safety, and the men and women who work to protect the citizens of North Carolina.

“Representative Mike Clampitt was a true champion for highway safety and public safety,” said Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood. “It is fitting that we dedicate this training to his memory and to the causes he worked so hard to advance. Every impaired driver we take off the road has the potential to prevent a tragedy, and the knowledge and skills gained through this training will directly contribute to making our highways safer.”

Swain County Sheriff Brian Kirkland echoed those sentiments. “Mike Clampitt understood the importance of supporting law enforcement and doing everything possible to make our roads safer,” said Sheriff Kirkland. “This training is a meaningful way to honor his legacy while continuing the work he believed in. We are proud to partner with the Western North Carolina DWI Task Force and agencies from across the region in this important effort.”

The kickoff for the training was attended by numerous law enforcement officials, including Sheriff Wood, Sheriff Kirkland, Major Randy Deaton of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, First Sergeant Aaron Ammons of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, and Sergeant Brody Crawford of the North Carolina Highway Patrol.

The participation of agencies from throughout Western North Carolina underscores the importance of regional cooperation in combating impaired driving. Officers participating in the training will receive specialized instruction intended to strengthen their enforcement capabilities and further their understanding of impaired driving investigations.

The Western North Carolina DWI Task Force and participating agencies remain committed to reducing impaired driving-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities throughout the region.

“Public safety is a shared responsibility, and partnerships like this allow us to combine our resources, experience, and expertise for the benefit of everyone traveling on our highways,” Sheriff Wood said. “We are honored to dedicate this week's training to Representative Clampitt and to continue his commitment to protecting the people of North Carolina.”

08/25/2026

For Immediate Release
August 25, 2026

Cherokee County Deputies Participate in Joint Training with Cherokee Tribal Police Department and Swain County Sheriff’s Office

On August 25th, 2026, members of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office participated in a joint law enforcement training session at the Appalachia Training Center in Bryson City. The training was hosted by the Cherokee Tribal Police Department and was attended by members of the Swain County Sheriff’s Office.

The training focused on Subject Control and Arrest Techniques, providing deputies and officers with practical, hands-on instruction designed to help them safely manage physical and potentially violent encounters. Participants were introduced to techniques drawn from Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and other combat disciplines, with an emphasis on controlling subjects, safely making arrests, and reducing the risk of injury to both law enforcement officers and the people they encounter.

Training in these skills directly benefits the citizens of Cherokee County. Law enforcement officers may face unpredictable and rapidly changing situations in the course of their duties. Maintaining proficiency in effective control and arrest techniques gives deputies additional tools to safely resolve those encounters while using appropriate levels of force. Regular hands-on training also helps ensure that these skills remain effective under the stress and demands of real-world situations.

The joint nature of the training provided an additional benefit to the communities served by each agency. Deputies and officers had the opportunity to train alongside one another, practice techniques in realistic situations, and strengthen communication and teamwork. Continued training between neighboring agencies helps build professional relationships that can be especially valuable when agencies work together during emergencies, major incidents, or other situations requiring a coordinated law enforcement response.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “Myself and Sheriff Kirkland had the opportunity to attend this training session, and the level of professionalism and effort really pumps me up. I am so thankful to the Cherokee Tribal Police Department for putting this on and fostering relationships between departments. This training not only benefits our deputies, but the community they serve.”

Pictured from the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office: Deputy Tristan Howard, Detective T. J. Major, Deputy Jesse Miller, Detective Nick Queen, Deputy Ryan Wilson, Sheriff Chris Wood, and Agent Hunter Wood.

08/25/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 25, 2026

Larceny Call for Service Leads to Vehicle Pursuit, Recovery of Stolen Property, Drugs, and Firearm

On August 25, 2026, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division was investigating a report of a stolen motor vehicle and trailer when deputies received information that the property owner was following the suspect vehicle on Joe Brown Highway.
An agent of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division was in the area and located the suspect vehicle. The agent attempted to conduct a traffic stop, however, the vehicle fled at a high rate of speed.

The agent pursued the vehicle on West US-64 from Old Murphy Road to Dickey Road, where the truck eventually came to a stop. The driver and passenger both fled the vehicle on foot. The agent pursued the driver and was able to quickly apprehend him. The driver was identified as David Anthony Dixon, 30, of Knoxville, Tennessee. Following Dixon’s arrest, deputies located methamphetamine, U.S. currency, and a flare gun. An AK-47-style firearm was also located inside the vehicle.

Dixon was taken into custody and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center. He was charged with the following offenses:

• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance
• Maintaining a Vehicle for the Sale of a Controlled Substance
• Felony Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle
• Felony Larceny
• Larceny of a Motor Vehicle
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Resisting a Public Officer

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “I am proud of the quick response by our office. The divisions operated as intended, and a reckless offender was taken off the street. Our deputies and agents worked quickly and effectively to recover stolen property, locate illegal drugs and a firearm, and apprehend the suspect. This incident is another example of the dedication and professionalism our citizens can expect from the men and women of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.”

The investigation remains ongoing. Additional charges may be forthcoming.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

08/24/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Honors Captain Chris Swanson Upon Retirement After 30 Years of Service

CHEROKEE COUNTY, N.C. — August 24, 2026 — The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office gathered today to honor Captain Chris Swanson, who officially retired from the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office on August 1, 2026, following an extraordinary 30 years of credited service to the citizens of Cherokee County.

A drop-in retirement luncheon was held today in Captain Swanson’s honor, bringing together a large group of current and former Sheriff’s Office employees, county officials, elected officials, friends, family members, and others whose lives and careers have been touched by his three decades of service.

Captain Swanson’s retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable career dedicated to public safety, the Cherokee County community, and the men and women with whom he served.

“Thirty years of service is an incredible accomplishment, but Captain Swanson’s impact cannot be measured simply by the number of years he wore the uniform,” said Sheriff Chris Wood. “Chris has devoted three decades of his life to serving the people of Cherokee County. He has been a leader, a mentor, a trusted colleague, and a friend to countless people who have had the privilege of working alongside him. His knowledge, experience, dedication, and commitment to this community will be deeply missed.”

Throughout his career with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Captain Swanson became a respected member of the law enforcement community and a valued leader within the agency. His years of service represent thousands of days spent answering calls, helping citizens, supporting fellow deputies and employees, confronting difficult situations, and carrying the responsibilities that come with wearing the badge.

Beyond the duties of the job, Captain Swanson’s greatest legacy may be found in the people he influenced along the way. Generations of Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office employees had the opportunity to learn from his experience and benefit from his steady leadership and commitment to doing the job the right way.

Today’s gathering was a reflection of that legacy. The presence of current and former employees, elected and appointed officials, friends, and family served as a testament to the relationships Captain Swanson built during his 30 years of service.

“On behalf of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens we serve, I want to express our sincere gratitude to Captain Swanson for everything he has given to this agency and this community,” Sheriff Wood said. “Thirty years of faithful service is something to be proud of, and Chris has certainly earned the respect and appreciation of everyone who has had the opportunity to know and work with him.”

While retirement represents the end of Captain Swanson’s career with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, his contributions and the mark he has left on the agency will continue to be remembered.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office wishes Captain Swanson a well-deserved retirement and extends its deepest appreciation to him and his family for the sacrifices, commitment, and support that made his 30 years of service possible.

Congratulations, Captain Swanson, and thank you for 30 years of dedicated service to Cherokee County.

08/21/2026

08/21/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 21, 2026

Shots Fired Investigation Leads to Arrest

On Thursday, August 20, 2026, at approximately 2:09 p.m., deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of shots fired near the intersection of U.S. 64 and N.C. 294.

Dispatch received information from a passerby who reported seeing a female exit a gold-colored Cadillac truck at the intersection. According to the initial report, a male inside the vehicle fired multiple rounds from the vehicle before leaving the area on U.S. 64 toward Murphy.

Deputy Anthony Blomgren located and spoke with the female involved, who provided information regarding the identity of the male driver and advised deputies that he was traveling toward the Dollar General store on Blairsville Highway.

Lieutenant Cody Williams subsequently located the vehicle and the male suspect, identified as Levi L. Christy. Christy had sustained a laceration to his wrist, which he stated was self-inflicted. EMS responded to the scene and treated the injury. Christy declined further medical transportation and signed a medical refusal form.

During the investigation, deputies recovered a Ta**us 9mm handgun and an empty magazine. The firearm was checked through NCIC and was not reported stolen. Investigators later located three spent 9mm shell casings at the location where the shots were reportedly fired.

During the investigation, Christy made statements indicating that he had discharged the firearm from inside the vehicle. Based upon the investigation and statements obtained, Sgt. Tucker placed Christy under arrest and transported him to the Cherokee County Detention Center.

Following a probable-cause hearing, Magistrate Josh Postell found probable cause for the following charges:

• Felony Discharge Firearm Within an Enclosure to Incite Fear
• Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct
• Misdemeanor Go Armed to the Terror of the People

Christy was issued a $10,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in Cherokee County District Court on September 8, 2026.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the deputies, supervisors, investigators, dispatchers, and EMS personnel who assisted with this incident.

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

08/19/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 19, 2026

Traffic Stop Leads to Felon in Possession of Firearm Arrest

On August 18, 2026, a member of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division conducted a traffic stop in the Andrews area on a truck displaying no registration plate. The driver of the truck was identified as Jeremy Casey LeQuire, 37 of Andrews, and the passenger was identified as Brittany Serena Luther, 38 of Andrews.

During the traffic stop, Special Operations Division K-9 Handler Leslie deployed K-9 Epic for a free-air sniff of the exterior of the truck. K-9 Epic provided a positive alert to the odor of narcotics. Following the K-9 alert, deputies and narcotics agents conducted a search of the truck. During the search, officers located a concealed handgun shoved into the seat of the vehicle. LeQuire was detained while the investigation continued.

During LeQuire's detention, K-9 Deputy Leslie observed a brown leather handgun holster on LeQuire's person. As officers continued searching the truck, LeQuire removed the holster and threw it onto the ground, apparently believing officers and agents had not previously observed it. Further investigation revealed that LeQuire was on active federal probation and was a convicted felon. Based on the firearm located inside the truck and LeQuire's status as a convicted felon, LeQuire was placed under arrest and charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated: “This is another example of proactive law enforcement doing exactly what it is intended to do. What began as a traffic stop for a vehicle displaying no registration plate resulted in the removal of a firearm from the possession of a convicted felon. The members of our Special Operations Division and Narcotics Unit continue to work together to identify criminal activity and keep illegal fi****ms out of the hands of those prohibited from possessing them.”

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