CAROLINE COUNTY, Va. — The Caroline County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 11 suspects and executed three search warrants as a part of 13-month long undercover drug operation named “Operation Stillwater.”
The operation began after citizen complaints of suspected drug activity in the Coolwater Rd. area of Ruther Glen. This operation focused on the suspected illegal distribution of heroin and prescription pills.
“Your Caroline Sheriff’s Office is vigilant in the fight against crime,” said Caroline Sheriff Tony Lippa. “I thank our citizens who continue to provide information and the dedicated men and women of this Sheriff’s Office for their continued efforts to rid Caroline County of illegal drugs. Together we are making Caroline County a safer place to live, work and raise a family.”
The four separate arrests took place in Caroline County, between May 10, 2016 and May 16, 2016.
On Tuesday, May 10, investigators and deputies executed a drug-related search warrant at 19397 Chilesburg Road, in the Beaverdam area of Caroline County. During the search warrant, investigators reported seizing heroin, numerous prescription pills and hypodermic needles.
Donna Starling, 42, of Beaverdam was arrested for one count of distributing heroin and one count of illegally possessing schedule II prescription pills. Allen Gonce, 32, of Beaverdam was arrested for possession of heroin and illegal possession of schedule II prescription pills.
Mark Coughlin, 36, of Ruther Glen was arrested on outstanding warrants from Hanover County and Spotsylvania County for probation violations. Investigators also reported arresting 41-year-old Tina Davis of Fredericksburg for driving while revoked.
On Friday, May 13, investigators and deputies executed a drug-related search warrant at 11435 Railroad Lane in the Ruther Glen area. Investigators reported seizing heroin, schedule II prescription pills, two handguns, a rifle, marijuana, digital weight scales and nearly $2,000 in cash.
Thomas Cushing, 44, of Ruther Glen was arrested and charged with three counts of distributing heroin, one count of illegally possessing schedule II prescription pills with the intent to distribute, and three counts of possessing firearms after having been convicted of a violent felony.
Jamie Blair, 36, of Ruther Glen was arrested and charged with one count of distribution of schedule II prescription pills. Blair was also served with an outstanding warrant from Spotsylvania County for distribution of schedule I or II drugs.
Shannon Swoope, 34, of Ruther Glen was arrested and charged with distribution of schedule II prescription pills.
Investigators also arrested two additional suspects on Friday, May 13 after investigators executed a drug-related search warrant of a room in the City Studios Inn Hotel in Carmel Church. Investigators reported seizing heroin, schedule II prescription pills, and hypodermic needles.
Donald Huff Sr., 57, of Ruther Glen was arrested and charged with two counts of distributing schedule II prescription pills. Donald Huff Jr., 28, was arrested and charged with distribution of imitation heroin, obtaining money by false pretenses and outstanding warrants from King George County, Spotsylvania County and Fredericksburg City for probation violations and failing to appear in court.
On Monday, May 16, investigators and deputies arrested 61-year-old Jackie Allison and 52-year-old Tammy Withrow of Cottage Lane in Ruther Glen. Jackie “Jack” Allison was charged with three counts of distributing schedule II prescription pills. Tammy Withrow was charged with obstructing justice and illegally possessing schedule II prescription pills.
