On May 12th, a call was placed to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office regarding an incident at an apartment complex located on Old Florence Road, a site that had previously drawn the attention of law enforcement due to its known occupants. In response, investigators proceeded to the area to monitor for any unusual behavior. During their surveillance, they spotted a maroon vehicle heading northbound on Old Florence Road, which they recognized as belonging to Wanda Shelton, a person of interest connected to the ongoing traffic at the complex.
As investigators observed Shelton’s vehicle, they noted that it was moving at a notably slow pace of just 10 miles per hour. Shelton appeared distracted, looking down and driving in the center of the road. When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, she did not comply until she reached the parking area of the apartment complex. Upon making contact with her, investigators found Shelton to be disoriented and slow to respond to questions. When asked about her whereabouts, she claimed to have just come from a doctor’s appointment.
Inquiries into whether she possessed any illegal substances led Shelton to deny having anything illicit on her person or in her vehicle. She mentioned that following a previous search warrant executed at her residence, she had ceased her involvement with drugs. This earlier incident had occurred on April 10th, 2025, when law enforcement discovered a significant quantity of illegal substances at her home, including six ounces of fentanyl mixed with “bath salts,” two ounces of methamphetamine, and various drug paraphernalia.
After further questioning, officers noticed several pipes with residue and a straw inside Shelton’s vehicle. Acknowledging the presence of narcotics, she voluntarily handed over a large bag containing two ounces of fentanyl and an additional ounce of methamphetamine. The bag also included digital scales, pipes, and other items typically associated with the use and distribution of illegal drugs. Consequently, Shelton was arrested at the scene, while her residence remained secured.
Despite being apprehended, Shelton refused to allow a search of her home and denied possessing any additional contraband. However, investigators subsequently secured a search warrant for both her residence and vehicle. This search yielded a firearm, along with more paraphernalia, including digital scales and various baggies. As a result of these findings, Shelton faced multiple charges, including Resale of Schedule 2 drugs (Fentanyl and Methamphetamine), Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She was then transported to the Lawrence County Jail without incident.