WELCH, W.Va. — The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office says multiple people were arrested Wednesday after deputies executed several search warrants at Elkhorn Towers.
According to a press release, deputies with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, Welch Police Department, and the West Virginia State Police Welch Detachment conducted coordinated searches at apartments inside the building. Investigators say the operation was part of an ongoing effort to address drug activity in the area.
Eight people were taken into custody on charges ranging from drug possession to intent to deliver. Authorities say Melissa Thompson Gentry, Oscar Valentine, and Jerry Powell were each arrested for possession of a Schedule II controlled substance. Pamela Wells faces two counts of possession with intent to deliver, maintaining a dwelling for drug sales, and conspiracy. Brett Atnip was charged with two counts of possession with intent to deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, maintaining a dwelling for drug sales, conspiracy, and being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Jessica Thompson was arrested for trespassing after being asked to leave, and Tiffany Pannell was charged with possession of a Schedule III controlled substance.
Officials emphasized that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
