Two Brookeland Residents Arrested Following Drug Investigation Near Country Mart

Photo Credit: Jasper County Sheriff's Office

BROOKELAND — Two Brookeland residents were arrested Tuesday following a drug investigation near Brookeland Country Mart, according to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.

On Feb. 3, 2026, Sgt. Chris Wade and Deputy Shannon Davis were in the area of Brookeland Country Mart when they observed suspicious behavior involving a dark-colored sedan. Deputies reported the vehicle turned off the highway and pulled into the store’s parking lot.

According to authorities, a female passenger exited the vehicle, noticed the patrol unit, and ran on foot behind the store. Believing criminal activity was occurring, deputies pursued the individual.

Sgt. Wade located the female behind the store, where she was allegedly attempting to conceal a black bag behind a barbecue grill. The woman was identified as Melissa Clinton, 40, of Brookeland. Deputies recovered the bag, which reportedly contained approximately 1.5 grams of methamphetamine, a glass pipe, and a digital scale.

Clinton was taken into custody and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 1, more than 1 gram but less than 4 grams, a third-degree felony, and Tampering with or Fabricating Physical Evidence, also a third-degree felony.

Deputies also made contact with the driver of the vehicle, identified as Timothy Lakey, 49, of Brookeland. Lakey was found to be operating a motor vehicle with an invalid driver’s license and was arrested for Driving While License Invalid with a Previous Conviction, a Class B misdemeanor.

Both individuals were transported to the Jasper County Jail.

All suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard stated that he and his staff remain committed to combating criminal activity and maintaining public safety throughout Jasper County.