The Russell County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) this week announced significant developments in two separate criminal investigations, resulting in multiple arrests and dozens of charges aimed at protecting the community from drug trafficking and financial fraud.
On December 2, 2025, a Russell County grand jury returned 137 indictments against 23 individuals for offenses related to the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other controlled substances. Four additional individuals were charged by warrant on 17 related offenses. As of Wednesday, 16 of the 23 indicted individuals had been taken into custody.
Sheriff William J. Watson and Commonwealth’s Attorney Zack Stoots emphasized the office’s ongoing commitment to combating illegal drug activity and holding accountable those who contribute to the presence of dangerous narcotics in the region.
In a separate case, two Georgia men were arrested following an investigation into a phone scam targeting a Russell County resident. Dapri Da’Mann Eugene Lewis, 26, of Atlanta, and Quindarius De’Shawn Gibbs, 26, of Fairburn, were taken into custody on Tuesday after investigators devised a plan to intercept the suspects during a planned exchange.
“The arrest came after an officer with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office received information concerning a scam,” Sheriff Watson said in a news release. “The victim in the case was contacted by the individuals prior and scammed into giving them money. Investigators met with the victim in the Castlewood area of the county and developed a plan of action to catch the individuals.”
The scam investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Wise County Sheriff’s Office, Coeburn Police Department, and the Virginia State Police.
The Russell County Sheriff’s Office continues to urge residents to report suspicious activity and remain vigilant against fraud schemes and illicit drug activity in the community.
