HENRY COUNTY, Va. (BTW21) — A major drug bust in Henry County on June 11, 2025, led to three arrests and the seizure of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin—along with a brief foot chase involving a suspect in handcuffs.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Interdiction Unit conducted a traffic stop at the AutoZone parking lot on Virginia Avenue after confirming that the driver, Ronald Edwards Jr., was operating a vehicle with a revoked license.
Deputies noticed suspicious behavior as Edwards and the front seat passenger, Zachary Denny, attempted to switch seats before the stop was completed. A K-9 unit was brought in and alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle.
A subsequent search uncovered numerous bags of suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, unidentified pills, a digital scale, and drug packaging materials. Field tests confirmed the presence of meth and fentanyl.
When deputies informed Edwards he was under arrest, he fled on foot—still in handcuffs—crossing Virginia Avenue. He was quickly apprehended by deputies without further incident.
The following individuals were arrested and charged:
Ronald Edwards Jr. (Held without bond)
Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute (VA Code §18.2-248)
Obstruction of justice: fleeing while under arrest (VA Code §18.2-460)
Zachary Denny ($3,500 secured bond)
Possession of fentanyl (VA Code §18.2-250)
Possession of controlled paraphernalia (VA Code §54.1-3466)
Phillip Thompson ($2,000 secured bond)
Possession of methamphetamine (VA Code §18.2-250)
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office stated that additional charges may be filed, pending full lab analysis of the seized substances.
Officials reaffirmed their dedication to combating illegal narcotics activity and ensuring public safety in the community.
