Putnam County, TN – Two people were arrested Wednesday after a traffic stop in Putnam County allegedly led deputies to discover suspected fentanyl and drug paraphernalia, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies conducted the stop around 791 S. Jefferson Avenue on October 29, 2025, after a vehicle was pulled over for a license plate violation. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the driver, identified as Jonah Mathews, was observed making “furtive movements” before allegedly attempting to discard a piece of foil upon exiting the vehicle. Deputies said the foil contained a small amount of suspected fentanyl.
A further search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered about 3–4 grams of a pink substance believed to be fentanyl, along with baggies, digital scales showing powder residue, and several cut straws. Mathews and passenger Rebecka Rector were both taken into custody and transported to the Putnam County Jail.
Mathews was charged with manufacture, delivery, and sale of fentanyl, tampering with evidence, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving on a suspended license, the release stated. His bond was set at $72,500, with a court date of December 1, 2025.
Rector was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and received a bond of $1,500. She is also scheduled to appear in court on December 1, 2025.
Officials credited the assistance of the PCSO Narcotics Division and Overton County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division for the arrest.
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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