Sharp County, Arkansas – On January 29, 2025, four individuals were arrested following a yearlong investigation into illicit drug activity and firearms offenses.
Investigators with the Sharp County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with agents from the 3rd and 16th Judicial District Drug Task Forces and officers from the Cave City Police Department, executed a search warrant at 204 Blackstone Street, Cave City. During the operation, law enforcement officers apprehended three individuals and seized evidence related to drug distribution and paraphernalia.
The following individuals were taken into custody:
- Thomas Brandin Corter, 40, of Cave City, was arrested and charged with delivery of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and maintaining a drug premises within 1,000 feet of a drug-free zone.
- Kristin Joelle Malatin, 38, of Cave City, was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and maintaining a drug premises within 1,000 feet of a drug-free zone.
- Brandy Lynn Straccener, 46, of Cave City, was arrested and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and maintaining a drug premises within 1,000 feet of a drug-free zone.
Later that day, investigators, agents, and officers executed a second search warrant at 601 Flat Rock Road, Cave City, leading to the arrest of an additional suspect:
- Zane Butler Turner, 32, of Cave City, was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance (opium), possession of drug paraphernalia, and maintaining a drug premises.
The operation resulted in the criminal and civil seizure of the following:
- Approximately 23 grams of methamphetamine
- Approximately 27 grams of opium
- One firearm
- One vehicle
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming. Authorities urge members of the community to report any suspicious activity as they continue efforts to combat drug-related offenses in Sharp County.
