High-speed Pursuit Ends in Arrest of Hiawassee Man in Clay County

Clay County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

On 09/30/26 at 7:55 PM Clay County Investigator JJ Wooten stopped a white motorcycle near the Dollar General Store located at 36 US Highway 64 Business in Hayesville. The license plate on the motorcycle was revoked, and it was found to be without liability insurance.

The rider was found to have been Dwayne Lewis Crowder, 66 years of age from Hayesville. Clay County Chief Deputy Tyler Faggard and NC State Trooper Eric Watson arrived at the scene to assist with this traffic stop. During this traffic stop, Crowder told the Officers that he had marijuana in a pouch attached to the handlebars of the motorcycle and methamphetamine in his pocket.

Both items were seized after being denoted by Crowder. During a search of Crowder’s person after his arrest, Chief Deputy Faggard found another baggy containing suspected methamphetamine and a glass smoking pipe with residue. Crowder admitted to using methamphetamine a few hours prior to being stopped.

Crowder was taken to the Clay County Detention Center and charged with felony Possession With Intent To Sell or Deliver Methamphetamine, felony Maintaining a Vehicle for Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Trooper Watson also charged Crowder with several traffic related offenses.

Crowder was issued a $25,000 secured bond for his release.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.