DeKalb County overdose death leads to multiple arrests
(L-R): Vanessa Taylor Whitmoyer, Leland James McDowell, Crystal Lynn Benson
DEKALB COUNTY, Al. (WDEF) — An overdose death investigation led to multiple arrests in DeKalb County.
On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, deputies with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) and other agencies responded to the 100 block of Highway 75 for a medical call.
Upon arrival, deputies and first responders found 53-year-old Kimberly Ann Little deceased inside the residence.
According to the DCSO, drug paraphernalia was in plain view, and a drug-related death investigation ensued.
After obtaining a search warrant for the residence, authorities uncovered fentanyl, methamphetamine, marijuana, and other various drug paraphernalia.
Upon obtaining evidence from the search, authorities were able to charge the following individuals:
- Vanessa Taylor Whitmoyer: Manslaughter-Fentanyl, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (2 counts), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts), Tampering with Physical Evidence, 2nd Degree Promoting Prison Contraband, and 2nd Degree Unlawful Possession of Marijuana.
- Leland James McDowell: 1st Degree Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
- Crystal Lynn Benson: Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
“Illegal narcotics continue to destroy families and communities and put lives at risk. This case is a reminder of the devastating consequences these substances can have. Our office is dedicated to hold individuals accountable in cases where reckless or illegal actions contribute to the loss of life.”
-DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden
