Lee County Deputies Seize Large Drug Cache in Verona Raid

Written with artificial intelligence assistance.

On August 20, 2024, a coordinated operation between the Lee County Sheriff’s Department and the North Mississippi Narcotics Unit led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of illegal drugs in Verona, according to the Lee County Sheriff's Department.

Sheriff Jim H. Johnson reported that deputies and narcotics agents executed a search warrant at a residence in the Verona area. During the operation, officers made contact with the occupants, identified as Ashley Nicole Marquez, 35, of Tupelo, MS, and Kentarius Devon Morrow, 33, of Verona, MS.

A thorough search of the property revealed trafficking amounts of both methamphetamine and fentanyl. The authorities have charged Marquez with trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine, while Morrow faces charges related to trafficking methamphetamine. Both individuals are now facing possible additional charges pending review by the Lee County Grand Jury.

Marquez has been assigned a bond of $100,000 set by a Lee County Justice Court Judge, while Morrow’s bond is set at $50,000. The investigation is ongoing as officials continue to address the broader implications of the case.

Ashley Nicole Marquez (left) ; Kentarius Devon Morrow (right)Photo byLee County Sheriff's Department, Mississippi