**Ongoing Investigation Leads to Heroin and Methamphetamine Arrests in Cumberland’s New York Section**
*By Jennifer McDaniels, Harlan Enterprise*
An ongoing investigation resulted in multiple heroin and methamphetamine arrests on Saturday in the New York Section of Cumberland. Cumberland Police Department (CPD) officers, assisted by deputies from the Harlan County Sheriff’s Office, served a felony warrant that led to the arrests.
According to CPD Officer Aaron Smith, the investigation has been underway for an extended period, originating from other drug-related inquiries in the area.
“These investigations require coordination and thorough work to ensure cases are built properly and charges are supported by evidence,” Smith explained. “We do not rush these cases, and we act when the time is right.”
The names of those arrested are being withheld for now, as the investigation appears to be part of a larger operation potentially connected to the New York Section arrests.
The charges from Saturday’s arrests include possession of methamphetamine, trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a convicted felon in possession of a handgun. All arrests were made without incident.
“Saturday’s arrests were conducted safely and without incident,” Smith said. “Officer safety and public safety remain our top priorities during all enforcement actions.”
The New York Section of Cumberland has been a hotspot for many of CPD’s drug-related complaints. While such reports come from various sources and areas, this section has been a particular concern for both residents and law enforcement.
Smith noted that other drug arrests had been made just a few nights prior, only a couple of houses up from the location of Saturday’s arrests.
“We arrested five individuals for drug charges,” Smith said. “Drug activity is not confined to one location, and we respond wherever complaints, intelligence, or criminal activity is identified.”
The recent arrests demonstrate CPD’s serious commitment to addressing the community’s drug problem. Officers dedicate countless hours to investigations, surveillance, and coordination with partner agencies to remove illegal drugs from Cumberland’s streets.
“We are committed, proactive, and relentless in protecting our community from the harm caused by narcotics,” Smith emphasized.
Cumberland Mayor Charles Raleigh acknowledged the high number of arrests made by his police department.
“One of my focuses as mayor has been to tackle the drug problem, not only for residents’ safety but also to clean up our streets and make Cumberland more appealing to business investors and tourists,” Raleigh said. “I think it’s safe to say that if you look at what department has the most arrests in the county, it’s Cumberland PD.”
He added, “Our police department is sending a strong message to both dealers and addicts alike: take your habits and drug business somewhere else. If you stay here, your life will be very, very miserable. I’d like to thank our police officers for the vigilant job they are doing. I, as mayor, back them 100 percent.”
While progress is being made, Officer Smith stressed that the fight against drugs in Cumberland is ongoing.
“Arrests and seizures disrupt drug operations, but enforcement alone does not eliminate the problem,” he said. CPD remains proactive and is committed to sustained efforts addressing the issue.
Smith also called on residents to take an active role in the fight against drug use and trafficking.
“Residents can help by reporting any suspicious activity, drug trafficking, or related crimes to the Cumberland Police Department,” he encouraged. “Tips from the community are often critical to investigations. We also encourage residents to look out for one another and support prevention.”
Joining Officer Smith in Saturday’s operation were CPD officers Sean Halcomb and Paul Bailey. They were assisted by Harlan County Sheriff’s Office deputies Jeremy Jones and Chauncey Tudor.
Investigations continue, and additional arrests or charges may be forthcoming as more information develops.
“We’re working all hours, days and nights to address the drug issue in our area,” Smith said.
Community members can submit tips to the Cumberland Police Department by calling 696-589-2105.
https://harlanenterprise.net/2026/01/18/several-arrested-for-heroine-meth-trafficking-in-cumberland/