PRESS RELEASE – On March 18, 2026, at approximately 11:20 a.m., deputies with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported breaking and entering in progress at a residence located at 4545 W U.S. 64.

Upon arrival, deputies observed a vehicle parked in the driveway of the residence. The property owners arrived on scene and advised that the residence had been unoccupied for approximately ten years and that a vehicle had previously been stolen from the property in December.

After being provided a key to the residence by the property owner, deputies made entry into the home and announced their presence. Inside, deputies encountered multiple animals and made contact with a male subject, later identified as Brian Wheeldon. Wheeldon complied with commands and was taken into custody without incident. Deputies were then advised that a second individual was inside the residence.

Additional deputies arrived on scene and located a female subject, later identified as Ashley Crisp, who was also taken into custody without incident. The residence was cleared, and no other individuals were located inside.

During the investigation, deputies observed evidence indicating the residence had been occupied, along with drug paraphernalia inside the home. Further investigation led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine in the vehicle located on the property.

Both Wheeldon and Crisp stated they had entered the residence believing it to be vacant and indicated they were homeless.

Brian Wheeldon and Ashley Crisp were each charged with:
• Second Degree Burglary
• Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance

Wheeldon is a registered sex offender and was in violation of his registration requirements at the time of this incident.

Wheeldon was additionally charged with:
• Failure to Notify the Registering Sheriff of a Change of Address as required by North Carolina law.

Both individuals were transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center, where they were served with their charges. Due to pre-trial release conditions, both were issued a no bond by the magistrate.

Sheriff Chris Wood stated, “Our deputies responded quickly and handled this situation safely and professionally. While we understand that some individuals may be facing difficult circumstances, unlawfully entering and occupying private property will not be tolerated. We remain committed to protecting the rights of property owners and ensuring the safety of our community.”

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.