FORT PAYNE, Ala. — In August 2025, the DeKalb County Narcotics Unit and the Criminal Investigation Unit officially merged to form the DeKalb County Drugs and Major Crimes Unit, a move Sheriff Nick Welden says has already shown significant results.
The newly combined unit consists of seven investigators and four narcotics investigators. Since its formation, the team has made more than 20 drug-related arrests and seized several pounds of illegal substances, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, and kratom. One notable case included charges filed against an individual accused of supplying drugs that led to an overdose death.
Sheriff Welden emphasized that the merger has increased both flexibility and efficiency in handling investigations. Two investigators now focus primarily on sex crimes, three are assigned to both property and sex crime cases, and another specializes in financial crimes. This structure, officials say, allows the unit to manage its heavy caseload more effectively while providing broader coverage across multiple areas of investigation.
“By combining resources, we are able to complete more work in a timely manner and assign personnel where they are needed most,” Sheriff Welden said. “This merger strengthens our commitment to holding offenders accountable while ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. Our citizens deserve the highest level of professionalism and accountability, and this merger ensures we are working smarter, faster, and stronger to meet those expectations. God Bless!”
Officials report that the newly formed unit will continue to build on its early successes, with a focus on protecting the community and bringing offenders to justice.