In the early hours of July 22, 2024, Chad Bradlee Neese, 47, of Union, was taken into custody following a routine safety checkpoint at the intersection of Highway 15 and Highway 492. The checkpoint was manned by Union Police Department Officer Joshua Grimes and members of the Newton County Sheriff’s Office.
Neese, driving a green Chevrolet pickup truck, was found to have a suspended license. This discovery led to further investigation and a subsequent search of the vehicle. During the search, officers recovered a vial labeled as anabolic steroids; however, later chemical testing revealed the contents of the vial to be liquid fentanyl, a potent and dangerous Schedule II narcotic responsible for hundreds of thousands of fatal overdoses each year. The search also uncovered a loaded hypodermic syringe containing a substance believed to be liquid methamphetamine and multiple strips of Suboxone.
Neese was taken into custody and transported to the Newton County Jail, where he is being charged with two counts of possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, one count of possession of a Schedule III controlled substance, possession of paraphernalia, and driving with a suspended license. The level, severity, and specificity of the charges are subject to change as the investigation continues.
In a statement, the Union Police Department said, "The safety and well-being of our community is our absolute top priority, and this arrest underscores that with the removal of such a dangerous substance from our streets. It also showcases the importance of constant vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies. The City of Union Police Department is grateful for the strong partnership we have with our neighboring agencies, including the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Together, we will continue to take a stance of zero tolerance on the trafficking of dangerous illegal substances, ensuring that our streets remain safe for all citizens and visitors to the City of Union."
The arrest highlights the importance of interagency cooperation and the commitment of local law enforcement to maintaining public safety. As the investigation progresses, more details may emerge, and additional charges could be filed.
