Crime & Safety
Jefferson County, AL Drug Bust Nets 60 Pounds of Meth, Marijuana
Bessemer, AL – A major narcotics seizure in Jefferson County, near Birmingham, has resulted in the arrest of a 37 year old man after investigators reportedly recovered nearly 60 pounds of methamphetam
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-10T15:40:10.264Z
Bessemer, AL – A major narcotics seizure in Jefferson County, near Birmingham, has resulted in the arrest of a 37 year old man after investigators reportedly recovered nearly 60 pounds of methamphetamine and additional marijuana during a traffic stop earlier this week.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, narcotics investigators conducted the traffic stop Monday, October 5, in the 5400 block of Park Avenue South in Bessemer, with assistance from SNET and the Vestavia Hills Police Department 's Vice and Narcotics Unit.
Authorities reported seizing approximately 27,098 grams of methamphetamine, equivalent to 59.74 pounds, with an estimated street value of $96,000.
Investigators also recovered 34.5 grams of marijuana.
Suspect Faces Multiple Drug Charges The suspect was identified as 37 year old Donarus Thomas.
According to the sheriff's office, Thomas has been charged with two counts of drug trafficking and possession of marijuana in the second degree.
He is being held at the Jefferson County Jail with bond set at $706,000, authorities reported.
The charges are allegations, and Thomas is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Sheriff Praises Joint Investigation Jefferson County Sheriff Mark Pettway credited cooperation between local law enforcement agencies for the significant seizure.
"I am pleased with this seizure of dangerous drugs," Pettway said, describing the operation as an outstanding collaborative effort involving the sheriff's office and Vestavia Hills police.
Pettway emphasized that protecting Jefferson County residents remains his department's priority.
Authorities have not disclosed additional details about the suspected origin or intended destination of the narcotics.
Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office at 205 325 1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205 254 7777.