7 arrested after authorities find drugs, guns and explosive devices in Cherokee County home

By Janice Yu / December 4, 2020/ FOX 5 Atlanta

Seven people were arrested after authorities found drugs, guns, and homemade explosive devices inside of a home in Cherokee County. According to Captain Jay Baker with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, this was the result of a two-month-long investigation by the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad.

"Once inside the residence. They were able to locate about 100 grams of methamphetamine, enough for a trafficking charge, they found eight firearms, including a sawed-off shotgun," Baker said.

One of the K-9s discovered the three explosive devices, according to Baker. The Cobb County Bomb Squad was called in to dispose of the devices. According to Baker, it's not common to come across explosive devices during a drug bust. “It’s dangerous. It shouldn’t be in any residential area," said CJ Wright, a resident of the neighborhood. The home is in a neighborhood with many homes close by. “Certainly we’re happy for the people that live in that neighborhood. They probably had no idea what was going on and what was happening right next door to them," Baker said.

Seven people living in the home were arrested. They were booked into the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center and were being held without bond as of Friday evening. They are:

Deuard Nicholson, 60, charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, possession of a sawed-off shotgun, possession of destructive devices, and giving false information to an officer.

Brian Collins, 60, charged with trafficking methamphetamine.

Selean Shuey, 53, charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, possession of a sawed-off shotgun, and possession of destructive devices.

Vance Allen, 63, charged with trafficking methamphetamine.

Anastasia Petix, 25, charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a schedule 1 narcotic, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

Brandi Stroud, 36, charged with trafficking methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Mark McDonald, 54, charged with trafficking methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine.

According to Baker, this investigation started off with a phone tip.

He urges anyone who sees or hearing anything suspicious to call authorities.

Citizens may call in tips anonymously to 770-345-7920 or may speak to an agent by calling 678-493-7625.