MURPHY
More charges filed in child sex case
Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood announced the arrest of Joshua James Dean, 35, of Tennessee, who turned himself in to the sheriff’s office on multiple felony indictments that were returned by a Cherokee County grand jury on May 4.
Dean, who was out on bond for sex offenses related to this case, faces three additional counts of indecent liberties with a child, one count of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, and one count of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. He is being held in the Cherokee County Detention Center under no-bond and is scheduled to make his first appearance in Cherokee County Superior Court on June 8.
The indictments were the result of an investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office following an initial report of suspected child sexual abuse. Detectives conducted interviews, coordinated with child advocacy professionals, conducted forensic exams on electronics and gathered evidence that was presented to the grand jury.
Additional investigative steps included forensic interviews, service of warrants and coordination with the District Attorney’s Office and Department of Social Services.
“Protecting children in our community remains one of our highest priorities,” said Wood said. “We will continue to work diligently with our local partners to ensure cases like this are thoroughly investigated and those responsible are held accountable.”
This case remains an active investigation. Due to its sensitive nature, no further information is expected to be released.
MARBLE
New crimes against children issued
A continued investigation led the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office to obtain indictments against a local man involving several crimes against children.
On May 4, the Cherokee County Grand Jury returned indictments charging Jason Lewis Gibby, 51, of Marble, with four counts of felony indecent liberties with a child and one count of felony statutory sex offense of a child by an adult. He was being held at the Cherokee County Detention Center in Murphy.
The charges stem from an ongoing investigation involving similar allegations for which Gibby was in custody. During the investigation, a second victim came forward and disclosed additional assaults, resulting in further indictments.
The Cherokee County sheriff’s investigators gathered evidence, conducted interviews and pursued all investigative leads related to these allegations. The investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible as investigators continue following up on information developed during the case.
“The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank the Cherokee County Grand Jury for their careful review of the evidence and for signing the indictments in this case. Their service is an important part of ensuring justice within our community,” Sheriff Chris Wood said.
Investigators also wish to recognize the courage shown by the second victim in coming forward. Reporting crimes of this nature is often extremely difficult, and the willingness of victims to speak with investigators can play a critical role in protecting others and preventing future abuse.
“Protecting children in our community remains one of our highest priorities, predators who target children should understand that we will work tirelessly to identify them, investigate them thoroughly, and bring them before the court system,” Wood said.
Because this remains an active and ongoing investigation, no additional information is being released at this time.
ANDREWS
Vehicle stop leads to indictments
On May 7 about 9:30 p.m., narcotics agents conducting proactive patrols in known drug areas of Andrews initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle.
The driver was identified as McKenzie Tanner, 37, of Andrews. Cherokee County E-911 conducted a records check and advised agents of outstanding indictments from Haywood County related to drug trafficking offenses. Tanner was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center in Murphy.
Tanner’s indictments include the following charges:
• Felony trafficking in opium or heroin (two counts);
• Felony possession of a controlled substance on a jail premises;
• Felony conspiracy to traffic opium or heroin (two counts);
Tanner was issued a secured bond in the amount of $750,000.
Sheriff Chris Wood said, “Our Patrol, Criminal Investigations and Narcotics Divisions are working tirelessly to disrupt criminal activity throughout the county. The service of indictments is a critical part of ensuring our criminal justice system functions effectively.”
MURPHY
National Corrections Week recognized
During National Corrections Week, Sheriff Chris Wood and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognize and honor the dedicated men and women who serve at the Cherokee County Detention Center.
Corrections officers and detention staff perform one of the most challenging and demanding jobs in public safety, Wood said. They are responsible for maintaining the safety, security and daily operations of the detention facility while treating all individuals with professionalism, fairness and dignity.
Their work often goes unseen by the public, but it remains a vital part of the criminal justice system and the overall safety of Cherokee County.
“National Corrections Week gives us the opportunity to recognize the commitment and sacrifice of our detention staff,” Wood said. “These men and women work long hours under difficult circumstances and carry tremendous responsibility every day. I am proud of their professionalism, dedication, and service to the citizens of Cherokee County.”
This year’s observance also carries special meaning as the sheriff’s office remembers and honors Detention Officer Francisco Flattes, who made the ultimate sacrifice after being killed in the line of duty on June 30, 2025.
Flattes served with courage, integrity and dedication to his fellow officers and the community he protected.
His loss continues to be deeply felt throughout the sheriff’s office and Cherokee County, Wood said. During National Corrections Week, the sheriff asks the community to remember Flattes and the sacrifices made every day by detention professionals across the country.
“We will never forget Officer Francisco Flattes,” Wood said. “His service and sacrifice represent the very best of this profession. We honor his memory and continue to support the men and women who carry on that mission each day.”
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to all detention officers, corrections professionals and support staff for their unwavering commitment to public safety and service to the community.
BEAVER DAM
Underage drinking party disrupted
On the evening of May 1, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of an underage drinking party in the Beaver Dam community. The reports were received from school personnel who had overheard the plans being made.
Deputies were initially alerted to the possibility of a gathering with alcohol beginning at 9 p.m., with the location reported as the pavilion near the boat ramp at Hanging Dog Campground or on Indian Hills Drive in the Beaver Dam community. Upon arrival at the residence on Indian Hills Drive, officers located multiple individuals on scene and coordinated their movement to the front of the residence for safety and identification.
Most individuals present appeared to be juveniles. Each person was identified, and their age was verified. Portable breath tests, administered using a recently calibrated and verified instrument, were offered. Several individuals tested positive for alcohol, with blood alcohol concentrations ranging from .01 to .19. A number of others tested negative for alcohol.
The primary resident of the property, Ashley Johnson, 40, of Murphy, was cooperative with law enforcement. She said she permitted the gathering at her home in an effort to prevent minors from driving after consuming alcohol.
Parents or guardians of all individuals under 18 were contacted, and arrangements were made for their safe pickup.
While awaiting transportation, one juvenile reported purchasing the alcohol at a convenience store in Clay County without being asked for identification by store clerks. She also indicated similar prior purchases at another local store without being carded.
On May 5, a criminal summons was issued to the primary resident for one count of contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. The N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement agency was notified and is following up on the alcohol purchase information.
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office reminds parents and community members that underage drinking poses serious safety risks.
Sheriff Chris Wood said, “The safety of our young people is our top priority. We appreciate the quick reporting from Murphy High School and the cooperation we received at the scene. While we understand the homeowner’s intention was to prevent impaired driving, allowing underage drinking at a residence is not the answer and carries serious legal consequences.
"We strongly encourage parents and adults to talk with their teens about the dangers of alcohol and to make responsible choices. Our deputies will continue working closely with schools, parents and state agencies to prevent these situations and keep our community safe through education, enforcement and community partnerships.
MURPHY
Man gets prison for firearms charge
A Murphy man will spend at least 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to malicious conduct by a prisoner and possession firearm by convicted felon, District Attorney Ashley Welch said.
Additionally, Dustin A. Pressley, 34, in court admitted habitual-felon status, North Carolina’s version of three strikes and you’re out. Habitual-felon status toughens judges’ options when handing down active prison time, essentially acting as a sentencing enhancer.
Superior Court Judge Tessa Sellers ordered Pressley to serve a minimum active sentence of 180 months in state prison up to a maximum 228 months.
Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood said Pressley “has terrorized the communities of Cherokee County for the majority of his adult life. This week, the bill came due for his actions. Fifteen years of one's life is a high price to pay; hopefully he'll see fit to redeem himself with such an amount of time to think about it.”
On May 6, 2025, Agent Parker Morgan and Lt. Drew Payne were searching for Pressley so they could serve outstanding felony warrants for his arrest. They found him on U.S. 19 near mile marker 28.
Morgan grabbed one of Pressley’s arms and a struggle ensued. With his free hand, Pressley grabbed a pistol in his waist band. Payne, in turn, grabbed Pressley’s hand and safely secured a 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
Pressley told the officers that if he had successfully pulled the gun he would have shot them. He spit blood on Morgan and Payne, as well as another deputy on the scene.
Assistant District Attorney John Hindsman prosecuted the case.
“I thank District Attorney Ashley Welch for her willingness to work with our office and to seek substantial sentences in cases like this,” Wood said.
ARRESTS
The following people were booked through the Cherokee County Detention Center from May 3-10, 2026, and federal law enforcement officers handled the cases. Those whose names appear should be presumed innocent unless proven guilty. To report criminal activity, citizens may call the automated tip line at 828-837-1344.
Jacob Tyler Roberts, 22, Pelhgam, 5-6, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, driving while impaired, misdemeanor child abuse.
Kyle Alexander Roth, 38, Murphy, 5-3, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, two counts misdemeanor domestic violence, two counts of assault on a female, misdemeanor child abuse, interfere emergency communication
Corey Lee Van Meter, 42, Murphy, 5-3, N.C. Highway Patrol, magistrate order, simple possession of Schedule IV controlled substance.
Tyler Anthony Arnold, 32, Asheville, 5-4, Andrews Police Department, Buncombe County warrants, seven counts of violate domestic violence protection order.
John Tipton Ayers, 44, Bryson City, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Swain County SMCP.
Tabitha Michele Bell, 34, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, possession of stolen goods.
Caleb Marcus Bennett, 27, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, possession of stolen goods.
Spencer Ray Branham, 37, Robbinsville, 5-4, Graham County Sheriff’s Office, holding for other agency.
Emmalyn Chloe Byson, 25, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, two warrants for failure to appear on a felony.
Kristi Michelle Collins, 36, Murphy, Andrews Police Department, 5-4, magistrate orders – resisting public officer and possession drug paraphernalia; Cherokee County warrant – possession of Schedule II controlled substance.
Zachary Dwayne Frady, 36, Murphy, 5-4, Murphy Police Department, magistrate order – possession of methamphetamine; Cherokee County warrants, damage coin/currency machine, breaking into coin/currency machine.
Michelle Kay Knight, 43, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, sentenced.
Chanda Dawn McGowan, 38, Marble, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, probation violation.
Dustin Aaron Presley, 32, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, writ of habeas corpus.
David Craig Holland Rowe, 44, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, failure to appear on misdemeanor.
Cassandra Brooks Taylor, 45, Robbinsville, 5-4, Graham County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, holding for other agency.
Cynthia Louise Trull, 67, Murphy, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, failure to appear on felony.
Robert Charles Weichbrodt, 42, Murphy, 5-4, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, sentenced.
Ryan Kelly Breazeale, 37, Andrews, 5-5, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
William Ed Carney, 47, Murphy, 5-5, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, failure to appear on felony.
Ashley Tonya Crisp, 33, Marble, 5-5, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrants, abandonment of an animal, six counts cruelty to animals, four counts precautions against dangerous dogs.
Alexander Carls Farland, 32, Bryson City, 5-5, Swain County Sheriff’s Office, holding for other agency.
Petre Alexandru Negu, 31, Ajax, Ontario, Canada, 5-5, Graham County Sheriff’s Office, holding for other agency.
Anthony Wayne Reagan, 30, Murphy, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrants – two counts failure to appear on misdemeanor; magistrate order, resisting public officer.
Sean Stuart Woods, 41, Andrews, 5-5. Andrews Police Department, magistrate order, possession methamphetamine, resisting public officer, misuse of 911 system.
Robert Reece Wright, 41, Murphy, 5-5, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, failure to appear on misdemeanor.
Robin Michele Hoffman, 56, Cuba City, Wi., 5-6, Graham County Sheriff’s Office, holding for other agency.
Trevor Jacobs Keck, 26, Murphy, 5-6, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, sentenced.
Ruth Annette Murphy, 58, Murphy, 5-6, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, misdemeanor larceny.
Kenneth Charles Smith, 51, Hayesville, 51, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, holding for other agency.
Joshua James Dean, 35, Cleveland, Tenn., 5-7, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrants, three counts indecent liberties with a child, first degree sexual exploitation of a minor, third degree sexual exploitation of a minor.
Amy Karine Freeman, 42, Andrews, 5-7, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, misdemeanor larceny.
Michael Loyd Johnson, 50, Murphy, 5-7, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, possession of drug paraphernalia.
Arryana Alyssa Presley, 21, Hiwassee Dam, 5-7, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate orders, injury to real property, resisting public officer, assault government official/employee.
Marcia Jean Schaal, 52, Murphy, 5-7, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant, misdemeanor larceny.
McKenzie Larry Tanner, 37, Andrews, 5-7, Haywood County Sheriff’s Office, true bill of indictment and warrant.
Sherrie Ann Bland, 68, Riverdale, Ga., 5-8, Cherokee Tribal Police, magistrate order, intoxicated and disruptive, resisting public officer.
Jessica Rena Brown, 37, Murphy, 5-8, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Walter Clifton Dyson II, 72, Murphy, 5-8, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant for misdemeanor larceny.
Kevin Garrett Ledbetter, 31, Murphy, 5-8, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrants, second degree burglary, larceny of a firearm, assault on a female, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, driving while impaired.
John Alan Ogden, 62, Hendersonville, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, holding for other agency.
Adam Emory Wilkins, 36, Culberson, 5-8, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Allen Christopher Adams, 52, Andrews, 5-9, Andrews Police Department, warrant for assault on a female.
Miguel Angel Herdande-Rodriguez, 40, Andrews, 5-9, N.C. Highway Patrol, magistrate orders, driving while impaired, no operators license, no registration, expired inspection, failure to maintain lane control.
Steven Jacome, 24, Murphy, 5-9, Murphy Police Department, magistrate orders for littering not more than 10 pounds, resisting public officer.
Angela Michelle McKnight, 23, Murphy, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Jonathan Griscome McMillan, 31, Marble, 5-9, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrant on failure to appear on misdemeanor.
Michael Andrew Parson, 22, Andrews, 5-9, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, warrants for assault on a female, injury to real property.
Ryan Lee Raney, 50, Murphy, 5-9, Murphy Police Department, magistrate order for violate domestic violence protection order; warrant for misdemeanor larceny.
Cassie Samara Segay, 40, Cooper Hill, Tenn., 5-9, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or distribute methamphetamine.
Jordan Conner Silvers, 24, Andrews, 5-9, Cherokee Tribal Police, magistrate order for intoxicated and disruptive, and resisting public officer.
Dylan Cola Thomas, 27, Guntersville, Ala., 5-9, Murphy Police Department, magistrate order for driving while impaired, resisting public officer.
Elizabeth Kaitlyn Trantham, 28, Murphy, 5-9, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, magistrate order, holding for other agency.
Compiled by Editor Randy Foster.