Etowah County, AL – Sheriff Jonathon Horton of Etowah County has announced the arrest of Lester Casina Smith (39) of Oxford, Alabama, on multiple drug-related charges. Smith faces charges including Trafficking Fentanyl, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana First, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Possession of Suboxone, Felony Eluding Law Enforcement, Resisting Arrest, and Obstruction of Governmental Operations.
The arrest stemmed from an incident on March 15, 2024, when Officer Jeremy Simmons of the Glencoe Police Department initiated a routine traffic stop involving Smith. Upon approach, Smith failed to comply with Officer Simmons and rapidly accelerated, nearly striking Sergeant Anderson. A high-speed chase ensued, with multiple law enforcement officers joining the pursuit. Despite efforts to evade capture, Smith was apprehended after a brief pursuit.
During a subsequent search of Smith’s vehicle, officers discovered a quantity of Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, Suboxone, and Marijuana, leading to Smith’s arrest. He is currently held at the Etowah County Detention Center on a $165,000 surety bond.
The investigation remains ongoing, with the possibility of additional state and federal charges being brought against Smith. Multiple law enforcement agencies collaborated on the case, including the Etowah County Drug Enforcement Unit, Etowah County Sheriff’s Office, Gadsden Police Department, Rainbow City Police Department, Southside Police Department, FBI North Alabama Criminal Enterprise Task Force, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force.
Sheriff Horton emphasized the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the apprehension of individuals involved in drug-related activities. He also urged the public to report any suspicious or illegal activities to local authorities to help combat drug trafficking and ensure community safety.
As the investigation progresses, further details may emerge regarding the case. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and remain vigilant against the dangers posed by illicit drug activities in their communities.
