Covington County, Ala. (WDNews) — The United States Marshals Service Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force has arrested a Covington County fugitive who had been wanted on a failure to appear warrant tied to a drug charge.
According to officials, John Caton Lee was wanted by the Covington County Sheriff’s Office on a warrant for Failure to Appear – Unlawful Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance.
Investigators said information provided by CrimeStoppers 215STOP helped officers determine Lee was staying at a home located at 413 Patrick Road in McKenzie, Alabama.
On March 11, 2026, members of the Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, along with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the Covington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the residence to take Lee into custody.
Authorities say Lee had already fled the home before officers arrived. A K-9 search was launched, and investigators later located him hiding in the woods behind an abandoned shed.
Lee was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Covington County Jail.
Officials said the arrest highlights the continued success of cooperative law enforcement efforts and the role CrimeStoppers tips can play in locating fugitives.
If you have information regarding any crime, please immediately call the Police or CrimeStoppers using the 24-hour tip line at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP (833-251-7867).
Text 215stop to 738477 to receive a link to the anonymous tip form. Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text HELP for help and STOP to cancel. P3 Terms and Privacy Policy apply.
Download the P3-tips app to ensure you receive a Tip ID and Password to communicate with investigators if a follow-up question is needed.
If you need to remain anonymous, call CrimeStoppers.
Note: A criminal charge is an accusation. The defendant is assumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
