Traffic Stop in Forest City Leads to Arrest, Drug Seizure, and Fentanyl Exposure

On September 26, 2025, deputies with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Division conducted a traffic stop on US 221A Highway near Kelly Road in Forest City.

During the stop, deputies reported seeing drug paraphernalia in plain view. They also observed white powder on the hands and clothing of a rear passenger, who was found to have an outstanding arrest warrant. Deputies said the passenger attempted to destroy or hide the substance, which resulted in fentanyl exposure to himself, others in the vehicle, and the deputies.

Approximately 4.9 grams of methamphetamine and 2.7 grams of fentanyl were seized. The fentanyl, which had been ripped open during the incident, spread across the suspect, the back seat, and remaining packaging. Deputies conducted a field test that indicated the powder was fentanyl.

Emergency Medical Services were requested to assist with decontamination. No one was hospitalized, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

The rear passenger, identified as 40-year-old Tyree Levon Hickman of Forest City, was arrested and charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance; possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver methamphetamine; felony altering, stealing, or destroying criminal evidence; possession of drug paraphernalia; and two counts of second-degree trespass from a prior warrant. He was given a $20,000 unsecured bond.

The driver, identified as David Lamont Ledbetter, was cited for driving while license revoked and displaying a fictitious registration plate.