Two Arrested on Methamphetamine Charges Following Traffic Stop in Murphy

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Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office announces the arrest of two individuals following a traffic stop conducted by the Special Operations Division on October 23, 2026, that resulted in the discovery and seizure of suspected methamphetamine.

During a proactive criminal interdiction operation, investigators observed a vehicle leaving a location believed to be associated with illegal narcotics activity. Information regarding the vehicle was relayed to a deputy assigned to the Special Operations Division, who subsequently located the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop in Murphy after observing a registration plate obstruction.

The driver was identified as Michael Fenimore, 58, of Murphy, and the passenger was later identified as Patricia Lockaby, 55, of Marble.

During the investigation, investigators observed drug paraphernalia in plain view inside the vehicle. Further investigation resulted in the discovery of multiple quantities of a crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine.

Investigators determined that Lockaby had initially provided a false identity and was wanted on outstanding arrest warrants. Additional suspected methamphetamine was recovered from Fenimore during the investigation.

As a result of the investigation, both individuals were arrested and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center.

Patricia Lockaby was charged with:

• Possession of Methamphetamine

• Resisting a Public Officer

• Lockaby was also arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Michael Fenimore was charged with:

• Possession of Methamphetamine

The suspected narcotics were seized as evidence. Information developed during the traffic stop regarding possible narcotics distribution activity remains subject to further investigation.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to proactive enforcement efforts aimed at identifying individuals involved in illegal drug activity and preventing dangerous narcotics from circulating throughout the community.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “Traffic enforcement continues to be an important tool in identifying and addressing illegal drug activity in our community. Our deputies acted decisively in this case, resulting in the recovery of suspected methamphetamine and the arrest of two individuals. Our office remains committed to proactive enforcement efforts aimed at identifying individuals involved in illegal drug activity and preventing dangerous narcotics from circulating throughout our community.”

All individuals charged with criminal offenses are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.