Hamilton County, TN, September 27, 2025
News Summary
Hamilton County, TN witnessed a spike in drug-related arrests following traffic stops initiated by local deputies. Three individuals, including one wanted for domestic assault and another for drug trafficking, were apprehended with various substances. The arrests reflect the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug-related issues in the community.
Hamilton County Deputies Make Multiple Drug-Related Arrests During Traffic Stops
Hamilton County, TN saw a significant increase in drug-related arrests following multiple traffic stops conducted by local deputies. The law enforcement actions led to the apprehension of three individuals connected to substantial drug offenses.
On Thursday, around 3 a.m., deputies initiated a traffic stop for a blue 2000 Chevrolet Silverado that had no illuminated registration lights. The vehicle was traveling south on Highway 58 and was occupied by the driver, Randall Smith, and a passenger, David Alan Wooten. When questioned, Smith mentioned he had visited a “friend’s” house but could not recall their name. He claimed the truck belonged to his mother.
Upon awakening Wooten, deputies noticed a strong smell of alcohol on him as he was slumped over in the passenger’s seat. A search conducted under his feet revealed a small blue zip-style baggie containing a white powdery substance, resembling powder cocaine, and a crystal-like cube consistent with ice methamphetamine on the vehicle floor. Wooten was subsequently detained, and a further search of his pockets yielded two glass cylinders with burn marks and residual white powder, as well as lighters.
Smith received citations for improper display of registration and failure to provide financial responsibility. Wooten was transported to the Hamilton County Jail for booking, where he dropped an additional ice methamphetamine cube and a substance wrapped in foil after being uncuffed. The foil contained three small zip-style baggies filled with multi-colored, unidentified substances resembling fentanyl, pending identification by the TBI crime lab. Wooten is currently facing multiple drug possession charges and has a prior arrest for wounding a police officer in 2017.
In a separate incident on Friday, deputies arrested Norris Carter-Willis, who was wanted for domestic assault. He allegedly struck his girlfriend with a flashlight during an altercation and would not allow her to leave. During the traffic stop, officers discovered methamphetamine in a small bag and partially dissolved in a cup within his vehicle. Carter-Willis has been charged with domestic assault, illegal car window tint, and meth possession.
The third arrest involved Avier Lawson, a wanted drug trafficking suspect who fled a traffic stop. Lawson drove onto sidewalks and lawns before crashing. Law enforcement identified him as being implicated in multiple drug trafficking cases dating back to March. Upon arrest, he was found with a loaded handgun and bags containing crack cocaine and fentanyl. The traffic stop occurred near James N. Gamble Montessori High School, raising public safety concerns. Lawson was booked into Hamilton County Justice Center and held without bond, facing eight felony charges before being released on a $200,000 bond the following evening. He also has a previous arrest on drug trafficking charges from November 2022, where a firearm and marijuana were discovered.
Summary of Arrests
| Suspect | Charges | Details |
|---|---|---|
| David Alan Wooten | Drug possession | Found with cocaine, meth, and substances resembling fentanyl |
| Norris Carter-Willis | Domestic assault, meth possession | Struck girlfriend and possessed meth in vehicle |
| Avier Lawson | Multiple felonies including drug trafficking | Fled traffic stop; found with a handgun, crack cocaine, and fentanyl |
Background Context
The pattern of drug-related arrests highlights the ongoing issues of substance abuse and trafficking within Hamilton County. Local authorities have increased their focus on traffic violations as a means to combat drug crimes, which have been a significant concern in the region. The arrests made during these traffic stops reflect a proactive approach by law enforcement to address the safety and health of the community.
FAQ
What happened during the traffic stop involving Randall Smith and David Alan Wooten?
A traffic stop was initiated for a blue 2000 Chevrolet Silverado due to no illuminated registration lights. Upon investigation, deputies found drugs and alcohol-related items, leading to Wooten’s arrest for drug possession.
What charges does David Alan Wooten face?
Wooten is facing multiple charges, including drug possession, after being found with various drugs during the traffic stop.
Who is Norris Carter-Willis, and what was he arrested for?
Norris Carter-Willis was arrested for domestic assault after allegedly striking his girlfriend with a flashlight and refusing to take her home.
What charges does Avier Lawson face?
Avier Lawson faces multiple felony charges, including drug trafficking and possession of crack cocaine and fentanyl.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Woman Arrested for Drug Disposal at Chattanooga School
Chattanooga Implements New Speed Cameras Near Schools
Chattanooga Schools Install Speed Cameras for Student Safety
Domestic Assault Leads to Arrest in Soddy Daisy
Chattanooga Launches New Traffic Safety Initiative for School Zones
Chattanooga Police Department Issues Warning After Eight DUI Arrests
Chattanooga Man Arrested for Drug and Gun Charges
Chattanooga Woman and Teen Arrested After Child Drowning
Chattanooga Human Trafficking Sting Operation Results in 14 Arrests
Chattanooga Mother Charged with Child Abuse After Vehicle Incident
Additional Resources
- News Channel 9: Hamilton County Man Charged
- Google Search: Hamilton County drug arrests
- Local 3 News: Traffic Stop Leads to Meth Bust
- Wikipedia: Drug Policy in the United States
- FOX19: Suspect Flees Police
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- KAKE: Kansas Traffic Stop Nets Arrests
- Google News: Drug Arrests in Hamilton County
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
