Traffic Stop Leads to Conclusion of Drug Trafficking Investigation

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Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division has been conducting an investigation into Christopher Bartron’s involvement in illegal drug trafficking in and around Cherokee County.

On October 30th, 2026, a deputy with the Special Operations Division conducted a traffic stop involving a vehicle operated by Bartron on Rowland Hill Road. The occupants of the vehicle were identified as Christopher Bartron, Stephanie Ashe, and Barbara Prince. During the course of the stop, agents developed probable cause to search the vehicle. The search resulted in the recovery of approximately 30 grams of suspected methamphetamine.

Through the investigation, agents determined that Bartron and Ashe had traveled to the Atlanta area to purchase illegal drugs with the intent of transporting them back to Cherokee County for distribution.

Christopher Bartron, 48, of Murphy, is charged with:

• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance

• Conspiracy to Traffic a Schedule II Controlled Substance

Stephanie Ashe, 32, of Andrews, is charged with:

• Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance

• Conspiracy to Traffic a Schedule II Controlled Substance

Both individuals are currently being held at the Cherokee County Detention Center under a $150,000 secured bond each.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “We continue to do everything we can to limit the supply of illegal drugs in our community and hold accountable those who choose to bring these substances into Cherokee County. Our Special Operations Division works around the clock to disrupt drug trafficking activity and ensure Cherokee County remains as safe as possible.”

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