CHIPLEY, Fla. (WDNews) – An armed disturbance in Washington County on Thursday night led to the arrest of two men and the seizure of more than 40 pounds of marijuana and two pounds of methamphetamine, according to Sheriff Kevin Crews.
Deputies responded around 10:12 p.m. Aug. 14 to a home on Merry Acres Drive after reports of masked, armed individuals attempting to enter a back shed. When officers arrived, a red pickup truck attempted to leave the scene. The driver, identified as Jermaine D. Marks, 44, of Caryville, and passenger Antuan J. Odom, 43, of Chipley, were stopped.
Odom, who lived at the residence and was later identified as a victim in the incident, was found bleeding from his left eye, with multiple bruises and his hands cuffed behind his back. Marks told deputies Odom had jumped into his vehicle asking for help.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage showing two masked suspects on the property, one armed with an AR-style rifle. The footage also showed Marks and Odom exiting the back of the residence—Marks carrying two suitcases and Odom, still handcuffed, dragging a large clear bag toward the woods.
A search of the wooded area uncovered approximately 41 pounds of marijuana, two pounds of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. Authorities believe the incident was a drug-related robbery.
Charges:
- Antuan J. Odom: Trafficking marijuana over 20 pounds, trafficking methamphetamine, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, tampering with evidence.
- Jermaine D. Marks: Trafficking marijuana over 20 pounds, tampering with evidence, out-of-county warrant.
The investigation into the armed robbery and assault remains active, and additional persons of interest are being sought.
Washington County Sheriff’s Office
