DEPUTY RUIZ GRADUATES MONTGOMERY POLICE ACADEMY:
 
Today was a great day for the WCSO, and for a former corrections officer, who now has answered the call, and is now a certified peace officer in the state of Alabama. Deputy Manuel Ruiz celebrated his graduation, alongside members of the WCSO at the graduation ceremony in Montgomery, AL.
 
Deputy Ruiz brings several years of corrections experience, and has proven himself to be the consummate professional, and dedicated to any task he undertakes. Manuel is the definition of a public servant, and strives to find new ways to better serve the residents of Walker County. We know he will continue to be a valuable member of this Sheriff’s Office, and are glad to extend him this opportunity.
 
Join us in congratulating Deputy Ruiz, and celebrating his accomplishment!

On February 11, 2025, Walker County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were dispatched to a residence in the Curry community of Walker County on a reported stolen vehicle. The property owner made a report of his vehicle being stolen and Stephen Russell Sims missing from the residence.

A suspicious vehicle unknown to the property owner was left at the scene and displayed a swapped tag. The vehicle left at the scene provided investigators information that led to another individual being involved. The second individual was identified as Cameron Taylor Cain.

Walker County Sheriff's Office Deputies and Investigators began an immediate search in the area and neighboring communities for Mr. Sims, Ms. Cain, and the stolen vehicle.

While searching potential locations, the Walker County Sheriff’s Office received a call that Ms. Cain was at a residence on Alabama HWY 195 close to the Farmstead and Manchester communities.

While deputies and investigators from the Sheriff’s Office were en route to that location, an additional call came in from another citizen nearby. That person called in to state that there was an unknown vehicle on his property. The description provided matched the description of the stolen vehicle from Curry that morning. The caller also stated that someone had burglarized two separate family owned properties and several items were taken. Walker County Sheriff's Office Deputies and Investigators responded to both locations.

While en route, the Walker County Sheriff’s Office was advised that Mr. Sims returned to the scene of the crime where the theft and burglaries had occurred.

Investigators observed through the windows of the stolen truck stolen items from the property. There were also items left behind by the suspects on the property.

The stolen vehicle was recovered and Mr. Sims was removed as a missing person.

Stephen Russell Sims was initially taken into custody and charged with unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and later charged with 3 counts of Theft of Property 1st, 1 count of Theft of Property 2nd and 3 counts of Burglary 3rd. Sims is currently being held in the Walker County Jail on a $156,000 Cash Bond.

Cameron Taylor Cain was later arrested and charged with 3 counts of Theft of Property 1st, 1 count of Theft of Property 2nd and 3 counts of Burglary 3rd. Cain is currently being held in the Walker County Jail on a $150,000 cash bond.

During the execution of the arrest warrant for Ms. Cain, Timothy Jarrod Colburn was located and arrested for FTAs on property and drug related crimes in a separate case.

Although there has been an arrest, this investigation remains ongoing.The Walker County Sheriff’s Office requests that anyone with additional information regarding this case, please contact Investigator Bryant Parkhurst at 205-302-6177

In 2024, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Peter Charles Brinley, age 38 of Townley. Recently, deputies and investigators attempted to locate Brinley without success. After some time, investigators received information that Brinley had left the state, and was in the Brevard County area of Florida.
 
Our investigator assigned to the US Marshal’s Gulf Coast Region Fugitive Task Force forwarded the information to marshals in Florida. Shortly after, Peter Charles Brinley was taken into custody on charges of rape in the first degree, sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old, and sodomy in the first degree and was brought back to Alabama.
 
We appreciate the assistance of the US Marshals to locate and affect this arrest. This is a prime example of the good things that can happen with inter-agency cooperation.

Recently, during a Nauvoo Neighborhood Watch meeting, a victim of vandalism approached me about the status of the vandalism and some details about their case. I contacted investigators with the information and went to see the damage for myself.

During the Thanksgiving holidays, the Nauvoo community was plagued by a rise in vandalism. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office responded to a home that had been vandalized, initiating a thorough investigation.

After a comprehensive process involving over 20 field interviews and extensive phone examinations, the case has been successfully resolved. It was determined that three juvenile individuals were responsible for the incidents and will be held accountable in juvenile court. This breakthrough in the case was achieved through countless hours of hard work by the investigations division.

The Sheriff’s Office and Task Force have arrested Dustin Weldon on Dilworth Bend Road in Empire on charges of Kidnapping 2nd Degree, False Reporting to Law Enforcement, and Tampering with a Witness.


Paul Brown was apprehended at Holcomb's, located at the intersection of Gardners Gin and Old Birmingham Highway, for multiple probation revocation warrants. Additionally, a stolen vehicle was recovered during the operation, which is being investigated by the Sumiton Police Department. Brown is expected to face further charges pending the investigation.


The Sheriff’s Office collaborated with the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, with assistance from a sheriff's office member assigned to the task force.

In a proactive effort to maintain community safety, Sheriff Smith announced the arrest of Colton Thorpe for drug-related offenses during a routine patrol in Kansas, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by substance abuse.

Sheriff Smith observed suspicious behavior that led to the traffic stop involving Thorpe. Upon investigation, authorities discovered possession of a controlled substance, specifically methamphetamine, along with drug paraphernalia.

Further checks revealed that Thorpe was also on probation in Alabama, raising concerns about his compliance with legal obligations. Sheriff Smith emphasized the importance of vigilance in the community and the commitment of the sheriff’s department to combat drug-related crimes.

“This arrest is a reminder that we are actively working to keep our community safe,” Sheriff Smith stated. “We will continue to patrol our neighborhoods and take necessary actions to address drug-related issues.”

Thorpe was taken into custody and is facing charges for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is currently being held at the county jail.

The sheriff's department encourages community members to report any suspicious activities through the sheriff's app. Together, we can work towards creating a safer environment for all residents.

On January 2nd, 2025, your patrol division started the year off with two narcotics related arrests.
 
Deputy Andrew Ingle stopped a vehicle near the Jasper Food Mart on Highway 78 for a traffic violation. During the course of the traffic stop, deputies became suspicious of the driver, and called out a canine officer. After the canine unit positively alerted to the vehicle, a quantity of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia was found. The driver was taken into custody and transported to the county jail. We thank the Dora Police Department for their K9 team assisting us.
 
That same evening, Deputy Ingle made a second traffic stop on a vehicle in the West Jasper area. The driver, initially, failed to yield to law enforcement, but pulled into a driveway approximately four blocks from the initial stop. Deputies on scene removed the driver from the vehicle, and a large quantity of marijuana was seen under the passenger’s feet. The driver was arrested without further incident, and was taken to jail.

We're committed to keeping our county safe, and we thank the hard work of our deputies. Deputy Ingle is a great example of being a proactive deputy, and we're glad to have him at the WCSO.

As people across the country gear up to ring in the New Year, the Sheriff, and Sheriff’s Office are urging everyone to prioritize responsible drinking and safe transportation. New Year’s Eve is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for drunk driving accidents, with a significant spike in DUI arrests and alcohol-related crashes. However, with proper planning and the use of available resources, these risks can be mitigated.
 
Driving under the influence (DUI) poses serious risks not only to the impaired driver but also to passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving accidents account for nearly a third of all traffic fatalities during the holiday season. On New Year’s Eve, the combination of late-night celebrations and alcohol consumption makes roadways particularly hazardous. Law enforcement agencies often increase patrols during this time to deter impaired driving. A DUI conviction can lead to hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory classes, and even jail time, not to mention the emotional and financial toll of causing an accident.
 
The good news is that there are many ways to ensure a safe ride home without risking a DUI. Here are some tips to consider as you plan your New Year’s Eve celebration:
1. Use Ridesharing Services
Apps like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient and affordable way to get home safely. On New Year’s Eve, ridesharing services often experience higher demand, so it’s a good idea to book your ride early or use the “schedule ride” feature to ensure availability. Be prepared for surge pricing during peak hours, but remember that the cost is far less than a DUI or accident.
2. Designate a Sober Driver
If you’re celebrating with friends, appoint someone in your group to stay sober and handle driving duties. A designated driver ensures everyone can enjoy the night without worrying about getting home safely.
3. Take Advantage of Local Safe Ride Programs
Some communities and organizations sponsor “safe ride” programs, providing free or discounted rides to prevent drunk driving. These services are often funded by local governments or nonprofits, so look for initiatives in your area.
4. Stay Over or Book a Hotel
If you’re celebrating far from home, consider staying overnight with a friend or booking a hotel room nearby. Avoiding the road altogether is one of the safest choices you can make.

Here are some Jasper hotels, and addresses.
Sleep Inn & Suites Jasper I-22 (90 Carl Cannon Blvd, Jasper, AL 35501)
Comfort Inn & Suites (202 Oakhill Rd, Jasper, AL 35504)
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Jasper (200 The Mall Way, Jasper, AL 35504)
Econo Lodge (101 6th Ave NW, Jasper, AL 35504)

If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party, you can play a role in preventing drunk driving:

• Offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverages.
• Stop serving alcohol at least an hour before the party ends.
• Encourage guests to arrange rides home or stay overnight if needed.

Each year, drunk driving accounts for nearly one-third of all traffic-related deaths in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2022 alone, over 11,000 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes—a statistic that underscores the enduring prevalence of this preventable tragedy. These fatalities represent not just numbers but real people: mothers, fathers, siblings, children, and friends whose lives were lost or irrevocably altered. Beyond the deaths, millions more are injured in alcohol-related crashes annually, often suffering life-changing consequences such as permanent disabilities, chronic pain, or emotional trauma. Additionally, the economic toll of impaired driving is staggering. A 2020 report estimated that DUI incidents cost the United States over $44 billion each year, encompassing healthcare expenses, lost productivity, legal proceedings, and property damage.
 
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs essential skills required for safe driving. Alcohol, for instance, affects judgment, coordination, reaction times, and the ability to concentrate—all of which are critical to operating a vehicle safely. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is the standard measure used to determine impairment. In most states, a BAC of 0.08% is considered legally intoxicated, though impairment begins well before reaching this threshold. Drugs, both prescription and illegal, compound the problem. Substances such as marijuana, opioids, and stimulants impair judgment and motor function, sometimes to an even greater extent than alcohol. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting public safety checkpoints throughout the county on 12/31/24, to 1/4/24. The hours will be from 6pm, until 6am, nightly. Drivers should have their license ready for inspection. The growing prevalence of poly-drug use—combining alcohol with drugs—has created additional challenges for law enforcement and public health officials.
 
The consequences of a DUI conviction extend far beyond the immediate inconvenience of an arrest. In most jurisdictions, penalties include hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and, in some cases, jail time. For repeat offenders or those whose actions result in injury or death, the penalties are significantly more severe, often involving lengthy prison sentences and lifelong restrictions. Beyond the legal system, the personal ramifications can be equally severe. A DUI conviction often leads to increased insurance premiums, difficulty finding employment, and strained relationships. For many, the stigma of being labeled a "drunk driver" lingers long after legal penalties have been served.
 
New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration and reflection, but it’s also a time to prioritize safety and responsibility. By planning ahead and using available transportation resources, you can ensure that the night ends on a high note—without the risks of DUI.
Let’s make 2024 a year to remember for all the right reasons. Stay safe, and Happy New Year!

In the overnight hours, the Walker County Sheriff’s Office Investigations and Patrol Divisions executed a search warrant on Kelley Road, in the Union Chapel Community.
 
During the execution of the search warrant, trafficking amount of methamphetamine was located, totaling approximately 14 ounces, or nearly 400 grams. This amount carries a street value of more than $20,000. This amount could supply the average methamphetamine user for over a year.
 
Henry Richard Burton was arrested on charges of trafficking methamphetamine, and is currently in the county jail, awaiting a bond hearing.
 
This brings the total trafficking cases for 2024 to 19, and represents our commitment to bringing illicit narcotic dealers to justice. We thank Investigator Richardson for the work leading to charges in this case.

 As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significant accomplishments our office has achieved over the past year. Despite facing numerous challenges, we have persevered and emerged stronger, thanks to the unwavering dedication of our team and the support of the Walker County community.
 
This year, we galvanized our commitment to public safety, enhanced our community outreach efforts, and implemented innovative programs that have made a significant, and tangible difference in the lives of Walker Countians.
 
We have made large strides in improving our patrol fleet, purchasing better equipment, adding training, enhancing departmental infrastructure, and drastically reducing recidivism. At the same time, we maintained a positive and active presence in the community.
 
Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission be the capstone of law enforcement, and a forerunner of public safety. We will continue working hand in hand with our residents to create a safer and better Walker County for our children, and future generations. Thank you for your continued support of our office, and to making Walker County a better place to live.
 
Below are highlights from 2024:
 
Serious Crimes and Recidivism:
Addressing concerns about repeat offenders remained a priority. We implemented programs targeting the root causes of recidivism, yielding measurable success:
 
2022: 1,891 arrests; 256 re-arrests; 925 felony offenses.
2023: 1,321 arrests; 159 re-arrests; 743 felony offenses.
2024: 1,088 arrests; 110 re-arrests; 662 felony offenses.
This steady decline in arrests and re-offenses demonstrates the effectiveness of our efforts. By equipping inmates with the tools needed for reintegration and reinforcing law enforcement efforts, we are making a real difference in collaboration with our partners and outreach programs.
 
Fleet Upgrades:
We enhanced our capabilities with the addition of 12 new Ford F-150 patrol units, evenly distributed between patrol and investigations.
 
Community Engagement:
 
•Added a new School Resource Officer (SRO) for the Walker County Center of Technology (WCCT) through a partnership with the Board of Education.
•Graduated over 300 students from the reinstated D.A.R.E. program.
•Hosted a countywide Fentanyl Awareness Campaign (January–March 2024).
•Introduced school-themed vehicles for SROs to foster pride and comfort among students and faculty.
•Sheriff Smith and SRO Miller were recognized by the Uvalde Kids Foundation for exemplary school safety efforts.
•Partnered with Project Appleseed to provide public firearm safety courses.
•Launched several Neighborhood Watch programs.
 
Organized community events, including:
•Drug take-back programs for safe prescription disposal.
•An Easter egg drop in Sipsey.
•Yerkwood’s annual cleanup day.
•Supported local festivals and parades, earning placements in:
•Veteran’s Day Parades: 2nd in Oakman, 1st in Jasper.
•Christmas Parades: 1st in East Walker and Oakman, 3rd in Jasper.
•Equipment and Training
•Distributed Axon body-worn cameras to all deputies and jail staff.
•Added two K-9 deputies specializing in firearm detection.
•Graduated three deputies from the police academy.
•Ensured all deputies completed:
•Sensory training through Kulture City.
•Implicit bias training.
•Fit-for-Duty training and review.
•SROs completed annual active shooter training.
•Secured a $5,000 grant for SRO entry tools and bags, which will be distributed in 2025.
Jail Improvements
•Implemented 24/7 medical coverage in the jail.
•Developed a new jail policy manual in collaboration with NIJO.
•Conducted a two-week jail academy led by NIJO instructors.
•Earned recognition as a Level One Treatment Facility for drug addiction.
•Established Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) classes.
•Partnered with recovery organizations to provide continued care for inmates post-release.
•Facilitated free eye exams and glasses for inmates through a partnership with the Lions Club.
•Transported the highest number of inmates to rehab facilities with minimal failures.
•Over 100 inmates were baptized through jail ministry programs.
Infrastructure Enhancements:
•Installed new radios and health monitors in the jail booking area.
•Added 20 cameras to improve oversight in booking and disciplinary dorms.
•Secured funding for Smartboards to support inmate educational programs.
•Acquired new handheld radios for corrections staff.
•Transparency in Spending
•In a commitment to accountability, we made the Sheriff’s Office spending reports available online for public review each month.
 
Teambuilding:
•Won the WCCA bowling tournament and a community softball tournament.
•Organized the inaugural Sheriff’s Fitness Challenge in partnership with Carbon Hill High School’s football team.
 
Crime Statistics:
Calls for Service: 15,182
Domestic Incidents: 212 physical, 249 verbal.
Theft Calls: 508
Traffic Stops: 2,943
Vehicle Pursuits: 27
Overdose Calls: 41
Animal Cases: 55 abuse, 173 complaints.
Altered Mental Status Calls: 169
Murders: 3, all resulting in arrests.
 
Litter Program:
Inmates participating in the litter program collected over 18,000 bags of trash from roadways and public events, demonstrating the value of this initiative for community improvement.
 
This year has been a testament to hope and change, particularly in our fight against addiction and recidivism. I am proud of the progress we’ve made and the hard work of the entire Sheriff’s Office team. As we look to the future, I remain confident that, together, we can continue to make Walker County safer and stronger.
 
Thank you for your support and trust in our efforts.