Narcotics Investigation Leads to Arrests in Forest City

The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office ACE Team executed a search warrant at a residence on Oakland Road in Forest City on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, following an investigation into suspected narcotics activity.

During the search at 1134 Oakland Road, deputies seized approximately 25 grams of powder fentanyl, multiple items of drug paraphernalia, $345 in U.S. currency, and several cell phones.

Two individuals were arrested at the scene:

• John Earl Strickland, of Forest City

  • Charges: Trafficking in Opium or Heroin, Maintaining a Vehicle/Dwelling/Place for Controlled Substances, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

  • Bond: $200,000 secured

    
    

• Angellica Dawn Ruppe, of Forest City

  • Charges: Trafficking in Opium or Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

  • Bond: $100,000 secured

The ACE Team stated it remains committed to addressing the distribution of dangerous narcotics in Rutherford County and encourages residents to continue reporting suspicious activity.