An investigation that began after a runaway juvenile was located has led to the arrest of a South Carolina man on felony child sex charges.

During the morning hours of Wednesday, June 3, 2026, deputies with the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office Road Patrol responded to 154 South Glenn Street in Ellenboro to serve an outstanding warrant on Stanley Heath Ledford for Domestic Violence and Assault on a Female.

Rutherford County commissioners have delayed a key decision on how to spend opioid settlement funds, tabling a vote during their June 1 meeting as residents voiced concerns over transparency and housing.

On April 3, 2026, officers with the Forest City Police Department notified deputies with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office of a possible sexual assault involving a 14-year-old juvenile female that reportedly occurred in Ellenboro.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell and the Iredell County Board of Commissioners for an incredibly generous donation that will directly enhance public safety right here in Rutherford County.