Monterey, TN – Deputies in Putnam County rescued a 15-month-old child from what authorities described as a “dangerous drug environment” during a raid Tuesday, December 2, that resulted in four arrests and the seizure of fentanyl, meth, firearms, and cash.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, deputies with the Narcotics Unit and Warrants Division executed a search at 1749 Old Walton Road in Monterey following community complaints of heavy drug traffic. Detectives identified the homeowner as Tammy Swallows and three others inside as Dwight Wilson, Avery Gilpatrick Jr., and Cherish Threet.
Investigators say Threet was found in a locked room with the child, who was not related to her. Detectives discovered fentanyl and drug paraphernalia within reach of the toddler, along with two firearms—one of which was loaded—and about $1,000 in cash.
Roughly seven grams of fentanyl and one gram of methamphetamine were seized at the scene.
Swallows, Wilson, and Gilpatrick Jr. were each charged under Haley’s Law with aggravated child abuse, neglect, and endangerment. Threet faces the same charges along with additional counts including possession and sale of fentanyl and meth, possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony, and alteration of serial numbers. Bonds range from $200,000 to $417,000, with court dates set for January 5, 2026.
Sheriff Eddie Farris said the conditions in which the child was found were “unacceptable and extremely dangerous,” commending deputies for their swift response and reiterating the department’s zero-tolerance stance on activity that endangers children.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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