On Friday, December 26, 2025, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Monroe County Sheriff’s Deputy Austin Cooke was contacted by Garrett Smith with the Monroe County DCBS office to accompany him to a residence on Akersville Road regarding a complaint that had been received.
Upon arrival, Deputy Cooke attempted to make contact at the residence by knocking on the front door but was unsuccessful. He then approached the garage on the left side of the house in an attempt to locate someone at the residence. While near the garage, Deputy Cooke detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside.
In plain view, Deputy Cooke observed a gray tote containing what appeared to be marijuana plant stems and marijuana residue on the floor. He also discovered several Ziploc bags filled with marijuana, along with additional bags containing more marijuana.
While Deputy Cooke and DCBS were on scene, the homeowner, Danny Ray Russell, returned to the residence. During a conversation with DCBS, Russell admitted to smoking marijuana. He was then placed under arrest and lodged in the Barren County Detention Center on a charge of Trafficking in Marijuana (greater than five pounds), first offense.
On December 27, 2025, Deputy Cooke obtained a search warrant for the residence due to suspected drug activity. Upon returning to the property, Deputy Cooke made contact with Russell in the front yard. The search warrant was read to Russell and two other occupants of the residence.
After being advised of the warrant, Russell escorted deputies to his truck, which was parked in the yard. He opened the passenger-side door and began removing duffel bags, telling deputies, “This is what you missed yesterday.” Deputies also located a black AR-15 rifle and several loaded black magazines inside the truck behind the passenger seat.
Russell stated that the items recovered were all that was on the property; however, deputies later discovered additional marijuana on the premises. Russell was placed under arrest and advised of his Miranda rights.
All seized property, including the firearm and accessories, cash, and approximately 118 pounds of marijuana, was logged into evidence. Russell was transported to the Barren County Jail and charged with the following offenses:
- Trafficking in Marijuana (greater than five pounds), First Offense (Enhanced)
- Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
- Buy/Possess Drug Paraphernalia