FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. — A drug trafficking investigation in Franklin County has culminated in the arrest of Bobby Nathaniel Courtney, 27, of Henry County, following the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal drugs.
The investigation began on August 30, 2024, when deputies from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations and Patrol Divisions launched a surveillance operation based on reports of suspected drug trafficking at the Lake Inn in the Westlake area. Authorities were led to believe that Courtney, who was wanted on existing warrants, was staying at the location.
After surveilling the area, law enforcement observed Courtney entering and exiting a room at the motel. Upon confirming his identity, deputies took him into custody for his outstanding warrants.
Subsequently, authorities executed a search warrant for the room where Courtney had been staying. The search uncovered a large drug stash that included:
Approximately 269 grams of heroin/fentanyl
Approximately 978 grams of methamphetamine
A firearm with ammunition
Drug packaging supplies
U.S. currency
Forensic analysis later confirmed the substances were linked to Courtney’s alleged drug trafficking operation, validating the presence of heroin/fentanyl and methamphetamine.
As a result of the investigation and forensic results, additional warrants were issued on January 8, 2025, leading to the following charges for Courtney:
Three felony counts of Sale, Distribution, etc. of Schedule I/II Drugs (3rd or subsequent offense)
One felony count of Sale of Schedule I/II Drug While Possessing a Firearm
One felony count of Distribution of More Than 200 Grams of Methamphetamine
One felony count of Possession with Intent to Manufacture/Sell/Distribute More Than 100 Grams of Heroin Mix
One felony count of Weapon Possession by a Non-Violent Felon
One misdemeanor count of Possession of Schedule III Drugs
Courtney remains in custody at the Henry County Adult Detention Center, where he is facing additional legal proceedings.
The drug bust is seen as a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. Franklin County Sheriff Bill Overton praised the collaboration between deputies and the Special Operations and Patrol Divisions, emphasizing the importance of community safety and the fight against illegal drugs.
“This operation is a testament to our commitment to keeping illegal drugs off the streets and protecting the safety of our community,” said Sheriff Overton. “We will continue to focus on disrupting the flow of illicit substances and bringing those involved in this criminal activity to justice.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about illegal drug activities to contact the department at 540-483-3000.
