🚨 Traffic Alert 🚨 This weekend, Saturday, September 6th, and Sunday, September 7th, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., expect traffic delays on Hwy 278 East due to the St. Bernard Blues & BBQ Festival. Please plan ahead and consider using an alternate route if possible. Thank you for your patience and safe travels!

On Thursday, September 4, 2025, at approximately 8:41 a.m., Mr. Kelvin Neil Cheatham voluntarily turned himself in to Cullman Police Department investigators. He was taken into custody in connection with the ongoing investigation into forged prescriptions tied to Infusion and Wellness Spa. He is now facing 11 criminal charges under Alabama law, including six felony offenses and five misdemeanors: • 2 counts of Drug Trafficking (Title 13A-12-231(3)) • 1 count of Attempted Drug Trafficking (Title 13A-4-2(d)(2)) • 1 count of Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Drug Trafficking (Title 13A-4-3) • 1 count of Criminal Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Title 13A-12-204) • 1 count of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance by Fraud (Title 13A-12-212) • 5 counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the 4th Degree (Title 13A-9-7) Chief Joey Duncan would like to commend Lt. Trey Higginbotham, Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, and the United States Marshals Service for their assistance in this investigation. This investigation remains active, and additional arrests and charges may follow. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law

🚨 Only a Few Spots Left! 🚨 Join us for the Cullman Law Enforcement and Community Services Golf Tournament ⛳ Don't miss your chance to play, network, and support a great cause alongside our local heroes. 📅 September 29th, 2025 📍 Terri Pines 🕘 8:00 am registration / 9:00 am start Spots are filling fast — secure yours today!

The Cullman Police Department wishes everyone a safe and happy Labor Day! Today we honor the hard work and dedication of the men and women who help make our community strong. As you enjoy the holiday with family and friends, remember to celebrate responsibly and stay safe on the roads.

Come out and see us at two great community events this September! 👋 📅 September 13th – Good Samaritan Health Clinic’s Caring for Cullman Health & Wellness Fun Day 📅 September 20th – Pilot Club of Cullman’s Vendor Market We’re looking forward to connecting with our community and sharing important resources. Hope to see you there! ⬇️

Yesterday afternoon, Officer Jeff Lawson had the privilege of teaching ALERT to the dedicated teachers at West Elementary. The Cullman Police Department is proud to partner with our schools, providing training and education that strengthen safety and build confidence in our community. Together, we’re working to protect and prepare those who care for our children every day.

Today, the Cullman Police Tactical Unit completed its monthly training, which included precision shooting and stress-response drills. The session concluded with live-fire exercises focused on crisis intervention, breaching techniques, and coordinated operations between sniper and entry teams. Our unit remains committed to continuous training to ensure we are always prepared to serve and protect our community at the highest level.

We always appreciate visiting senior centers and socializing. This morning, they persuaded us to try Bocce Ball. We loved our time together and eagerly anticipate returning.

August 25, 2025 Verdict Reached in 2023 Cullman Homicide Case The Cullman Police Department announces that a jury in Cullman County has found John Drozda guilty in the 2023 shooting death of Thomas Brannon. This verdict brings closure to a case that has been a top priority for the department since its inception. On September 17, 2023, officers responded to a reported shooting near the Boatright Apartments on Hickory Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered Thomas Brannon had succumbed to a gunshot wound. The swift response of patrol officers and cooperation from witnesses facilitated the rapid identification of a suspect. Through meticulous collection of physical evidence and multiple eyewitness statements, investigators identified John Drozda as the individual responsible for the shooting. With assistance from the FBI North Alabama Violent Crime Task Force (NAVCTF) and the Hartselle Police Department, Drozda was located and arrested in Hartselle, Alabama, without incident. Following a thorough trial, on August 21, 2025, a Cullman County jury returned a guilty verdict against Drozda. He is scheduled for sentencing on October 1, 2025. Chief Joey Duncan commends the outstanding efforts of Investigator Sgt. Thomason and Assisting Investigator Watkins, as well as the entire Cullman Police Department, including patrol officers and the investigative team, for their dedication and professionalism throughout this case. We also express sincere appreciation to District Attorney Champ Crocker, Assistant District Attorney Nate Brock, and the entire prosecution team for their exemplary work in securing this conviction and ensuring justice was served. This case underscores the department's unwavering commitment to justice for victims and the safety of the community through collaborative efforts and strong law enforcement partnerships.

We appreciated the opportunity to spend time with our seniors at the Active Adult Center. The fellowship was great, complemented by the barbecue and ice cream. We look forward to seeing everyone soon.

Chief Duncan supporting the Bearcats tonight!

The Cullman Police Department is proud to support our students! Best of luck to the Cullman Bearcats as they take on Bob Jones High School tonight. Go Bearcats! 🏈

At the Cullman Police Department, our mission is to positively impact our community. Our officers diligently work every day to educate citizens across all age groups. Sergeant Adam Clark delivered a presentation to a group at St. Johns church, highlighting the dangers of scams and frauds. Lieutenant Eric Cole spoke to classes at Cullman High School today, outlining the physical standards required to become a police officer and our use of force protocols.

Additional Arrest Made in Infusion Wellness and Spa Case Cullman, Ala. — On August 20, 2025, at approximately 3:08 p.m., the Cullman Police Department, assisted by the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, made an arrest in connection with the ongoing investigation involving Infusion Wellness and Spa, taking Mr. Kody Ray Smith into custody. Mr. Smith has been charged with 11 criminal offenses under Alabama law (6 felonies and 5 misdemeanors), including: • Criminal Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime • Attempt to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime • Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance by Fraud (4 counts) • Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument, 4th Degree (5 counts) As this case remains under active investigation, further arrests or charges may be made as additional information becomes available. The Cullman Police Department reminds the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

🚓WE'RE HIRING!🚓 The City of Cullman is currently accepting applications for the position of Police Officer. Join our team and come be part of a community that values your service! View the complete job description and apply online at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cullmanal #cullmanalabama #jobs #policeofficer

Please click the link below to apply!

Yesterday, we were grateful for the chance to support Brooks Place Child Advocacy Center of Cullman. We enjoyed fellowship with our friends from the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office. We are privileged to have a great relationship with our community partners. We even got Chief Duncan to give it a swing.

Public Assistance Requested The Cullman Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating Kelvin Neil Cheatham, who is wanted on multiple felony charges, including drug trafficking. These charges are connected to the ongoing investigation at Infusion Wellness and Spa, where his daughter, Whitney Cheatham, was taken into custody on August 16, 2025. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kelvin Cheatham is urged to contact the Cullman Police Department at 256-734-1434

Thursday, we had the pleasure of speaking with the Daystar Joy group about fraud and scam awareness. It was a wonderful time of conversation, fellowship, and great food. Educating and protecting the citizens of Cullman is a vital part of our mission, and events like this help us strengthen our commitment to serving our community every day. If your group, church, or organization would like us to come speak on fraud prevention or other safety topics, please reach out — we’re always glad to share and connect with our community.

Cullman Police Make Arrest in Connection with Forged Prescription and Drug Trafficking Case On August 5, 2025, the Cullman Police Department (CPD) was notified of a series of forged prescriptions that had been written and filled at multiple local pharmacies. These prescriptions were used to obtain a range of medications, including controlled narcotics. A criminal investigation was immediately launched, led by Lt. Trey Higginbotham, Investigator Hunter Riddlesperger, and Investigator Nick Watkins. Based on their findings, investigators obtained a search warrant for Infusion Wellness and Spa, the business associated with the forged prescriptions. The warrant was executed on August 11, 2025, and key evidence was collected. As a result of the investigation, arrest warrants were issued on August 15, 2025, for Whitney LeAnn Cheatham, 33, of Cullman. On August 16, 2025, at approximately 10:15 a.m., Cheatham turned herself in to Cullman Police and was taken into custody without incident. She is currently facing 25 charges under Alabama law. Additional charges and arrests may follow as the case develops. Charges against Whitney LeAnn Cheatham include: • 3 counts – Drug Trafficking (13A-12-231(3)(c)) • 1 count – Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Drug Trafficking (13A-4-3) • 1 count – Attempted Drug Trafficking (13A-4-2(d)(2)) • 6 counts – Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance (13A-12-211) • 1 count – Attempted Unlawful Distribution of a Controlled Substance (13A-12-211) • 1 count – Criminal Conspiracy to Unlawfully Distribute Controlled Substances (13A-12-204) • 1 count – Practicing Medicine Without a License (34-24-51) • 11 counts – Forgery in the 4th Degree (13A-9-4) Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker confirmed that his office approved the warrants, stating: “I can confirm that my office approved warrants for drug trafficking and a host of other charges for the arrest of Whitney L. Cheatham. These charges stem from the illegal procurement of controlled substances through forged prescriptions originating from Ms. Cheatham’s business. I want to thank the local pharmacies that assisted law enforcement, as well as the Cullman Police Department for their outstanding work. While an arrest has been made, this investigation is still ongoing.” Cullman Police Chief Joey Duncan added: “I would like to commend Lt. Trey Higginbotham, Investigator Hunter Riddlesperger, Investigator Nick Watkins, and District Attorney Champ Crocker for their outstanding work on this case. Their dedication, professionalism, and relentless pursuit of the truth led to a major breakthrough in what was a complex and evolving investigation.” The Cullman Police Department remains committed to protecting the community from prescription fraud and drug-related offenses and will continue working with partners to ensure those responsible are brought to justice. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.