Traffic Stop Leads to Trafficking Arrest

PRESS RELEASE – On September 24, 2026, members of the Cherokee County Special Operations Division conducted a traffic stop in the area of Mission Road.

During the traffic stop, the driver attempted to evade law enforcement by pulling into the driveway of a private citizen and offering the homeowner $50 to allow him inside in an attempt to avoid law enforcement.
Deputies made contact with the driver, Terry Joseph McMichael, 43, of Hiawassee, Georgia, and quickly developed probable cause to search the vehicle.

As a result of the search, deputies seized approximately 4.5 grams of fentanyl, 78 grams of methamphetamine, and 145 grams of marijuana, along with $802 in U.S. currency.
McMichael was arrested and transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center.

McMichael faces the following charges:
• Felony Trafficking in Fentanyl by Possession
• Felony Trafficking in Fentanyl by Transport
• Felony Trafficking in Methamphetamine by Possession
• Felony Trafficking in Methamphetamine by Transport
• Felony Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver Marijuana (PWIMSD)
• Misdemeanor Simple Possession of a Schedule III Controlled Substance

McMichael is currently being held without bond at the Cherokee County Detention Center.

Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood stated: “Mr. McMichael is not from Cherokee County but made the erroneous decision to come here and peddle illegal drugs. I have made myself abundantly clear that we will not tolerate it. Either stay where you are or enjoy your stay at the Cherokee County Detention Center. This is our county, and we are taking it back.”

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