Authorities recover $12,000 worth of fentanyl during drug investigation
HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) recovered $12,000 worth of fentanyl during a recent drug bust.
On June 4, 2025, HCSO narcotics detectives and SWAT Team executed a search warrant at a 4634 Ruby Red Drive.
The following items were located and recovered from the residence:
- 104 Grams (0.2 pounds) of Fentanyl valued at approximately $12,000
- $3,204 in U.S. Currency
- Mini Draco rifle (7/62×39)
- Smith and Wesson M & P (.380) pistol
- Glock 26 (9 mm) pistol
- Multiple drug paraphernalia items
HCSO says the Department of Child Services was notified due to a child being inside the residence and in proximity of Fentanyl.
The main subject in this investigation, Lavon Watkins, was later taken into custody.
Watkins was transported to the Hamilton County Jail and Detention Center where he faces the following charges:
- Possession of Fentanyl for Resale
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession of a Weapon During a Felony
- Reckless Endangerment of a Child
Further charges may be filed against Watkins in relation to this case.
“Sheriff Austin Garrett would like to remind you that if you were involved either in selling or purchasing narcotics from Watkins, you can expect a visit from us soon.”
-Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office
