A drug trafficking investigation in Franklin County culminated in the arrest of Bobby Nathaniel Courtney, 27, of Henry County, and the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs.
The operation, which was part of an ongoing effort to combat drug trafficking in the region, resulted in multiple felony charges against Courtney, who remains in custody.
The investigation began on August 30, 2024, when deputies from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations and Patrol Divisions initiated a surveillance operation based on reports of suspected drug trafficking at the Lake Inn in the Westlake area.
During their observation, authorities received information that Courtney, who was wanted on outstanding criminal warrants, was believed to be staying at the location.
Shortly after arriving at the Lake Inn, law enforcement officers observed Courtney running into a room and exiting a short time later. Upon confirming his identity, deputies took Courtney into custody on his existing warrants.
Following the arrest, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for the room where Courtney had been staying.
The search led to the discovery of a significant drug stash, which included:
Approximately 269 grams of heroin/fentanyl
Approximately 978 grams of methamphetamine
A firearm with ammunition
Drug packaging supplies
U.S. currency
Forensic analysis later confirmed the composition of the substances, validating their connection to the drug trafficking operation.
The large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin/fentanyl seized during the operation are significant due to the high potential for abuse and overdose associated with these drugs.
As a result of the ongoing investigation and forensic results, additional warrants were issued for Bobby Courtney on January 8, 2025. He now faces the following charges:
Three felony counts of Sale, Distribution, etc. of Schedule I/II Drugs (3rd or subsequent offense)
One felony count of Sale of Schedule I/II Drug While Possessing a Firearm
One felony count of Distribution of More Than 200 Grams of Methamphetamine
One felony count of Possession with Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Distribute More
Than 100 Grams of Heroin Mix
One felony count of Weapon Possession by a Non-Violent Felon
One misdemeanor count of Possession of Schedule III Drugs
Courtney was served with these new charges and remains in custody at the
Henry County Adult Detention Center, where he faces additional legal proceedings.
The charges reflect the seriousness of the offenses, particularly the trafficking of large amounts of heroin and methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in connection with drug distribution.
Sheriff Bill Overton of Franklin County praised the efforts of his deputies and the collaboration between the Special Operations and Patrol Divisions in tackling drug trafficking.
"This operation is a testament to our commitment to keeping illegal drugs off the streets and protecting the safety of our community," Sheriff Overton said in a statement. "We will continue to focus on disrupting the flow of illicit substances and bringing those involved in this criminal activity to justice."
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office has vowed to continue its efforts to combat drug trafficking, and authorities are urging the public to report any information related to illegal drug activities. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 540-483-3000.
This investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more details emerge.