For Immediate Release: October 30, 2023

HCSO Seizes Approximately $70,000 in Narcotics, Firearms, and Various Contraband in Vehicle Search

Hamilton County, TN – On Thursday, October 25, 2023, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Uniformed Patrol Services conducted a traffic stop at the 3-mile marker of I-75 South after observing a vehicle traveling in excess of the posted speed limit. Deputies made contact with the occupants and while doing so detected an odor of Marijuana coming from inside the vehicle.

Deputies then searched the vehicle and located a black backpack containing a large amount of narcotics. Further search revealed two loaded handguns and $2,112.00 in US currency. Detectives with the HCSO Narcotics and Special Investigations Unit were contacted and responded to assist. The narcotics were determined to be approximately 333 grams of Methamphetamine, 216 grams of Fentanyl, 60 grams of Crack Cocaine, and 128 grams of Marijuana, along with plastic baggies, digital scales, and numerous blister packs of Sildenafil. The approximate street value of the narcotics is over $67,000.00.

“This year, we experienced 684 overdoses which resulted in 78 deaths across our county. Each day, your sheriff’s office is relentless in our commitment to eradicating dangerous drugs like methamphetamine and Fentanyl which are indiscriminately killing our citizens. To those involved in the distribution of this poison in our community, I have a clear message: We are looking for you and we are coming for you,” stated Sheriff Austin Garrett.

The suspects, Demario Chambliss (Driver), and Paula Smith were transported to the Hamilton County Jail and booked on the following charges:

Demario Chambliss

• Drugs for Resale x2

• Driving while in Possession of more than 5 grams of Methamphetamine

• Possession of a Firearm during a Felony

• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

• Speeding

Paula Smith

• Drugs For Resale

• Possession of a Firearm during a Felony

• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

The investigation has since been referred to the US Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution.

No further details are available at this time.