Rutherford County Drug Bust

A months-long joint investigation by the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, the Tri-City Violent Crimes Task Force (TCVCTF), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) concluded this week with multiple arrests, search warrants, and the seizure of a substantial quantity of illegal drugs.

On December 9, 2025, around 9:00 a.m., investigators with the Sheriff’s Office ACE Team attempted a traffic stop on a 2017 Porsche Cayenne along Highway 74 near the Old Caroleen Road exit. The driver, later identified as Robert Karon McEntire, also known as “SLAY,” fled the scene, sparking a vehicle pursuit through Forest City. During the chase, McEntire discarded a black backpack, which was recovered by officers. He eventually abandoned the vehicle near Forest Street and 2nd Street and fled on foot. A perimeter was established, and a K-9 unit initiated a search.

Investigators traced McEntire to 362 Forest Street, where the residence was secured and multiple occupants were removed. Search warrants were obtained and executed at two addresses connected to the investigation: 362 Forest Street and 169 Hamilton Street. McEntire was found hiding inside the Forest Street residence and was taken into custody without incident.

McEntire and Harold Lee Ballard, also known as “CHOP,” were under investigation for conspiring to traffic large amounts of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. Both men are being held without bond.

In total, law enforcement seized approximately 16.8 pounds of narcotics, along with $530 in U.S. currency, firearms, and two vehicles. The seized drugs included 8.83 pounds of methamphetamine, 3.25 pounds of fentanyl, and 4.75 pounds of cocaine.

McEntire faces multiple charges, including trafficking in methamphetamine, cocaine, amphetamine, and opium or heroin; conspiracy to traffic cocaine and opium or heroin; maintaining a vehicle and dwelling for controlled substances; fleeing and eluding arrest; possession of a firearm by a felon; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana. Authorities have confirmed McEntire is a validated Eight Trey Gangster Crip through the Violent Crimes Task Force.

Ballard faces charges including conspiracy to traffic cocaine and opium or heroin, trafficking in cocaine and opium or heroin, possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver marijuana, and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances.

Three additional individuals located at 362 Forest Street—Delvin A. Wiggins, Jamarius Williams, and Telly Kelly Jr., all of Forest City—were charged with resisting, delaying, and obstructing law enforcement.

Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Nathan Mace and the TCVCTF commended the collaborative effort, highlighting the dedication and resources required to carry out the investigation. Officials also thanked assisting agencies for their roles in the operation and reaffirmed their commitment to public safety in Rutherford County.