Montevallo, AL – In a significant drug enforcement operation, the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force successfully seized over 1,000 grams of various illegal drugs during a raid on a residence in Montevallo.
The bust led to the arrest of three individuals connected to the location, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the area.
The search warrant was executed on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at a residence on Davis Hawkins Street in the Almont area of Montevallo. The operation involved collaboration with the Shelby County Tactical Response Unit, resulting in the confiscation of a large volume of drugs and firearms, as well as the detention of three suspects.
The Scope of the Drug Seizure
During the search, authorities discovered a staggering quantity of drugs, reflecting the range and scale of substances involved in the illegal distribution operations. The seized items include:
- 10 pounds of marijuana
- 154 grams of cocaine
- 154 grams of promethazine
- 22 grams of MDMA (Ecstasy)
- 175 grams of methamphetamine
- 135 grams of THC (the main component of cannabis)
- 172 grams of hydrocodone
- 146 grams of psychedelic mushrooms
- 34 grams of crack cocaine
- 3 grams of oxycodone
- Firearms seized during the raid
Arrests and Charges Filed
The three individuals arrested at the scene were Anthony Peoples Sr., Desmond Cottingham, and Tamika Cottingham. Each faces serious charges related to drug possession and trafficking. The details of the charges are as follows:
- Anthony Peoples Sr. faces multiple charges including drug trafficking for marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and hydrocodone, two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful firearm possession due to certain prohibitions.
- Desmond Cottingham faces charges for unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and first-degree possession of marijuana.
- Tamika Cottingham is charged similarly with unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and first-degree possession of marijuana. She bonded out on September 5, 2025.
Following their arrests, all were taken to the Shelby County Jail. The bond amounts were set at $1,231,000 for Peoples, $40,000 for Desmond Cottingham, and $20,000 for Tamika Cottingham as per WBRC.
Law Enforcement’s Ongoing Efforts Against Drug Crimes
This operation underscores the dedicated efforts by local law enforcement to disrupt drug-related activities in Shelby County communities. The collaborative action between the Drug Enforcement Task Force and Tactical Response Unit demonstrates a coordinated strategy to dismantle drug trafficking networks posing threats to public safety.
“Seizing such a large quantity of drugs and apprehending those responsible is a critical win for the community,” stated a spokesperson from the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force. “We remain committed to thorough investigations and focused action to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
What’s Next for the Case?
The legal process will now proceed with the suspects facing the judicial system. The evidence gathered during the search will be pivotal in forthcoming court proceedings, as authorities continue their investigation into possible larger drug networks operating in and beyond Montevallo.
Key Facts to Note:
- The drug bust occurred on September 4, 2025.
- Over 1,000 grams of drugs were seized, including multiple illicit substances.
- Three residents were arrested and are facing multiple charges involving drug trafficking and possession.
- Significant bond amounts reflect the severity of charges.
What do you think about this major drug bust in Montevallo? Have you or someone you know been affected by drug-related crimes in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
