PRINCETON W.Va. (WVDN) – On March 20, 2025, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office successfully executed a drug search warrant at 110 Fairview Street in Princeton. The operation resulted in the arrest of eight individuals on drug-related and other criminal charges, with an additional seven individuals detained for further investigation.
The arrests stem from a month-long investigation led by Detective-Corporal M. T. Hatfield, alongside other deputies. The success of this operation was made possible in part due to valuable assistance from the public.
The following individuals were arrested and charged:
• Ronald “Nicky” Mills – Possession with intent to distribute, Possession of a controlled substance (x2), Theft of power
• Matthew Pigg – Magistrate court capias
• Donald McCall – Fugitive from justice (Russell County, VA), Grand Larceny, Conspiracy, Possession of a controlled substance
• Shawn Roberts – Fleeing on foot
• Briana King – Fleeing on foot
• Tammy Carter – Possession of a controlled substance
• Dawlton Blankenship – Possession of a controlled substance
• Joseph Hunt – Possession of a controlled substance
Sheriff A. P. Christian emphasized that this operation marks the beginning of a renewed street-level drug enforcement initiative by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.
“Let this serve as a warning to drug dealers and users—your door could be next,” said Sheriff Christian. “The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office stands ready to take action against those who contribute to the spread of illegal drugs in our community.”
Additionally, Sheriff A. P. Christian and Mercer County Prosecutor Brian Cochran intend to utilize West Virginia Code §61-9-1 to seize homes or compel property owners to stop allowing drug activity on their premises. Under this statute, a “nuisance” is defined as any place where illegal activity, including lewdness or assignation, is permitted or maintained. Property owners who knowingly allow criminal activity to continue may face legal action, including the forfeiture of their property or court-ordered abatement measures.
The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting and serving the community by aggressively targeting illegal drug activity. Anyone with information regarding drug-related crimes is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office.
Anonymous tips can be sent through our website at www.wvmcs.org
