Registered sex offender arrested after attempting to impersonate law enforcement
CHEROKEE COUNTY — A registered sex offender has been arrested after attempting to impersonate law enforcement, according to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO).
On May 14, 2026, the CCSO says they received a complaint through social media regarding an individual in the Brasstown community allegedly utilizing lights and a siren on a vehicle in an attempt to impersonate law enforcement.
During an investigation, detectives identified the suspect as a registered sex offender residing in Cherokee County.
Investigators further discovered the suspect was operating multiple social media accounts that had not been reported to the Sheriff’s Office as required by law.
The CCSO says as a result of the investigation, arrest warrants and search warrants were obtained for the suspect’s residence and vehicles.
On the afternoon of May 14, 2026, Sheriff Chris Wood, along with investigators and uniformed deputies, executed the search warrant at the suspect’s residence in Brasstown.
Christopher James Rahilly, 67, of Brasstown, was taken into custody without incident.
They say during the search, investigators seized multiple electronic devices from the residence.
Deputies also located and seized a professionally installed siren and control box from the suspect’s vehicle.
Rahilly was transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center and charged with:
• Sex Offender Registry Violation
• Possession of an Illegal Warning Device (Siren)
He is currently being held under a $5,000 secured bond.
