Cleveland and Rutherford Counties partnered on major fentanyl bust

Staff reports | Cleveland County Sheriff's Office press release

CRIME – On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, a joint criminal interdiction operation conducted by the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office C.I.T. Team and Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office A.C.E. Team resulted in the seizure of more than two kilograms of fentanyl and the arrest of a Charlotte man.

During the operation, deputies initiated a traffic stop on Highway 74. After initial contact with law enforcement, the suspect, identified as Brandon Thompson of Charlotte, North Carolina, fled the scene in his vehicle, leading deputies on a pursuit.

A short time later, Thompson attempted to exit onto Old Caroleen Road, where he lost control of the vehicle and crashed. He immediately exited the vehicle and fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by deputies.

Following Thompson’s arrest, deputies conducted a search of the vehicle and discovered more than two kilograms of fentanyl concealed in the trunk.

(Drug seizure continued below..)

Thompson was taken into custody and remains at the Rutherford County Detention Center pending further judicial proceedings.

This significant seizure is the direct result of the outstanding teamwork, coordination, and dedication demonstrated by the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office C.I.T. Team and Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office A.C.E. Team. Their continued efforts help protect the citizens of both counties by preventing dangerous narcotics from reaching local communities.

Sheriff Norman stated, “This seizure highlights the effectiveness of strong partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the dedication of our deputies who work tirelessly to keep dangerous drugs out of our communities. More than two kilograms of fentanyl represents thousands of potentially deadly doses that will never reach the citizens of Cleveland and Rutherford Counties. I am extremely proud of the professionalism and teamwork displayed by the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office C.I.T. Team and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office A.C.E. Team. Together, we remain committed to holding drug traffickers accountable and protecting the citizens we serve.”

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This is a press release of The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office.

The Shelby Independent