Vehicle Pursuit Leads to Arrest of Wanted Fugitive and Recovery of Methamphetamine

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

On April 14, 2026, with assistance from Clay County Sheriff's Office, a Narcotics Agent attempted to conduct a vehicle stop on Floyd Stalcup Road. The driver failed to stop and fled, prompting a vehicle pursuit. The pursuit ended when the suspect crashed the vehicle. No serious injuries were reported.

The suspect was identified as Kevin Dewayne Durden, who was wanted in both Clay and Cherokee Counties on charges of Trafficking in Methamphetamine. During a subsequent search, agents recovered approximately one pound of methamphetamine, 1.9 grams of Fentanyl, oxycodone pills, and $2,741.00. Durden had been attempting to conceal his identity by wearing a wig.

Durden was taken into custody and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center. He has been charged with multiple offenses related to trafficking methamphetamine and is currently being held on a $250,000 secured bond. Additional charges are forthcoming.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Clay County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.

Sheriff Chris Wood issued the following statement:

“I’ve said it before, if you are trafficking drugs in this county, we are coming. It’s not a matter of if, but when. I am proud of the professionalism and determination shown by our Narcotics and Criminal Investigations Divisions. Because of their actions, this suspect’s reckless behavior did not harm our community. We will continue to pursue those who threaten the safety of our citizens.”

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