Drug Arrests in Cherokee County

CHEROKEE COUNTY — Cherokee County authorities have arrested three men after executing a narcotics search warrant. Sheriff’s investigators executed the warrant Friday at the residence of Johnny Ray Birdwell (pictured), 63, located just outside the Reklaw Community in Eastern Cherokee County. Detectives Fred Butler and Michael Goff obtained a search warrant for the residence after conducting a lengthy narcotics investigation into the alleged sale of narcotics by Birdwell. The search warrant was executed at approximately 3:00pm on Friday afternoon. A total of $1,333 was seized, as were approximately 5 oz. of crystal methamphetamine, packaging materials, and other drug paraphernalia, according to officials. Birdwell, Brandon Wade Coats, 44, of Rusk, and Donald Ray Guinn Jr., 41, of Jacksonville were arrested at the scene.

All three suspects were charged with Manufacture/Delivery of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1 (Greater than 4 grams, but less than 200 grams), which is a first degree felony. Birdwell is currently on parole for a previous felony conviction, and will most likely be served with a parole violation in the coming days. Guinn was also charged with Possession of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1 (Less than 1 gram), which is a first degree felony. Detectives say they located stolen property at the residence, which resulted in a second search warrant being obtained and executed later on the same day. According to authorities, more charges are possible and will be filed as the investigations are completed.