Multi-Agency Investigation Leads to Drug Trafficking Arrests in Cherokee County

UNION COUNTY, Ga. — A joint investigation involving law enforcement agencies from North Carolina and Georgia has led to the arrest of three people accused of trafficking methamphetamine and other illegal drugs into Cherokee County, NC.

According to officials, the Union County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit, in partnership with the sheriff’s offices of Cherokee County (NC), Fannin County (GA), Gilmer County (GA), and Clay County (NC), carried out a coordinated operation beginning August 17, 2025.

Investigators allege that Robert Gerald Stiles and Shandar Michelle Kauffman traveled into Georgia to obtain methamphetamine for distribution in Cherokee County.

A traffic stop conducted during the investigation resulted in the seizure of roughly nine ounces of methamphetamine and 12 ounces of gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), commonly known as the “date rape” drug. Both suspects were arrested without incident and charged with trafficking methamphetamine along with other drug-related offenses.

The investigation later led detectives to the Ranger community in Cherokee County, where they executed a search warrant at the home of Brianna Renee Sherman on August 19. Authorities say they recovered methamphetamine and fentanyl during the search, prompting Sherman’s arrest.

A subsequent forensic analysis of Sherman’s phone allegedly tied her to Stiles, supporting additional charges of conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine into Cherokee County. On August 25, Sherman was taken into custody at her residence and booked into the Cherokee County Detention Center under a $250,000 secured bond. She is scheduled to appear in district court on September 10.

Stiles, currently being held in the Gilmer County Detention Center, will also face conspiracy charges in Cherokee County once released.

Cherokee County Sheriff Shawn Dyer credited the success of the investigation to the collaboration among multiple jurisdictions.

“This case shows the value of cooperation across county and state lines,” Dyer said. “We appreciate the dedication of the officers and agencies who worked tirelessly to bring these offenders to justice.”