Two Cherokee County firefighter were arrested following an investigation that began after officials with Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services noticed that medications had been tampered with on a county ambulance.  Cherokee County Fire officials reported the incident to the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, who investigated the incident in conjunction with the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS). After an undercover operation was conducted, 34 year old Johnathan Wayne Thomas of Canton, was arrested at his home following a search warrant at the location on Wednesday afternoon.  Thomas has been charged with the sell of Hydrocodone, felony possession of marijuana, possession of a schedule II controlled substance, possession of a schedule III controlled substance, and possession of a schedule IV controlled substance. 

A second firefighter with Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services has been arrested today.
Twenty-five year old, Jarad Jones, of Canton turned himself in at the Cherokee Adult Detention Center this afternoon. Jones is charged with felony “theft by taking.” He is also accused of illegally obtaining Fentanyl, a liquid pain killer, from a Cherokee County Ambulance in 2011.

Cherokee County investigators believe Jones took the Fentanyl on more than one occasion and that the drug was used for his personal use.

Jones came to work at the fire department in August of 2005. Jones’ bond is set at $5,700.00.

Cherokee County Fire Chief, Tim Prather stated, “This agency will not tolerate any type of illegal management or mishandling of our controlled substances, nor will we permit the possession and use of illegal drugs by our employees.  Illegal drug use is a debilitating disease that can interfere and destroy a family, a person’s health and career.  I hope Mr. Thomas and Mr. Jones will take the necessary steps to overcome this issue and situation.” 

Thomas and Jones have been suspended without pay as the investigation continues. They are both being held at the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center.