According to Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver, the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit recently dismantled a significant marijuana grow operation that resulted in the arrest of three and possibly more arrests are expected as the investigation continues.

Arrested, according to Shaver were Michael Allen Poole, 64, and Timothy Bradford Poole, 45, who were charged with trafficking marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Cody Allen Poole, 21, is charged with second degree unlawful possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Centre Police Officer Will Clark, who is assigned to the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit, initiated this investigation based on information received from the public. Clark along with other investigators, including Justin Kinny with the Alabama Forestry Commission, utilized electronic surveillance equipment to identify those responsible for cultivating and harvesting the marijuana plants between the Sandy Creek and Rock Run communities. Agents recovered a significant amount of marijuana, currency, a vehicle, an all-terrain vehicle, a utility trailer, and items used in the marijuana grow operation, Shaver said.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit is appreciative of any assistance from the public. Any person who wishes to report a crime may call the Cherokee County Sheriffs Office tipline at 256 927-9999 or visit our website at www.cherokeecountyalsheriff.com. Caller information will be kept anonymous.