BB gun sparks standoff
A local man was arrested last week following a brief standoff with police.
The standoff began around 4 p.m. Friday when sheriff’s deputies were sent to arrest 39-year-old Robert Gee Stalcup in connection with an outstanding warrant. Officials say Stalcup ran into his house when he saw deputies and barricaded the door.
While a deputy knocked on the door ordering him to surrender, Stalcup allegedly pointed a weapon at the officer. The deputy then called for backup and law enforcement officials swarmed the neighborhood.
During the standoff, officials spoke with residents of Gold Branch Estates Drive who said they were sure Stalcup only possessed a BB gun. As a result of that information, deputies penetrated the home and arrested Stalcup at gunpoint.
“If we didn't know [that he only had a BB gun], it could've gone on for a long time,” Sheriff Derrick Palmer said. “I think we have a group of people with good decision-making skills.”
The standoff lasted about 45 minutes. No shots were fired, and no injuries were reported.
Stalcup is charged with assault on law enforcement with a firearm, communicating threats, assault with a deadly weapon and other related offenses. He is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, Oct. 14.
Trio accused of meth trafficking
Three women are accused of trafficking meth in Cherokee County.
The trio was arrested during a traffic stop around 2 p.m. on Sept. 17 after they reportedly ducked to avoid detection while traveling near the intersection of U.S. 64 West and Hiwassee Street. Officials say the driver of the vehicle slammed on the brakes when they saw police, prompting the passengers to hide their faces.
Officials say a deputy followed the vehicle and noticed some information on its license plate was partially covered, so he initiated a traffic stop. During the investigation, the driver reportedly gave consent to search the vehicle.
Officials found 36 grams of meth and a digital scale on the rear seat after the women had stepped out of the car. No one claimed ownership of the drugs.
“If it's in a vehicle and nobody claims it, they all get charged,” Capt. Tiffany Holland said.
Marble residents Mandy Jane Fortner, 31, and Chanda Dawn McGowan, 33, were arrested along with Haley N. Farr, 22, of Blue Ridge, Ga. They are each charged with trafficking methamphetamine.