Three Arrested in Major Drug Bust in Johnson City, Tennessee

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WCYB) — Three individuals were arrested on drug-related charges following a substantial seizure by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday, March 3, 2025.

Authorities executed a traffic stop in downtown Johnson City, leading to the discovery of illegal substances at a nearby residence on Ferrell Drive. Sheriff Keith Sexton reported that law enforcement seized 343 grams of methamphetamine, 12 grams of fentanyl, and an additional 16.5 grams of an unidentified crystal-like substance that may also be methamphetamine or fentanyl.

In total, deputies recovered four handguns, approximately $1,200 in cash, and various pills and paraphernalia commonly associated with drug trafficking operations. The seizure highlights ongoing concerns about drug-related activities in the area.

Christopher Thomas McKinney, 38, is charged and is currently held on a bond of $99,000. Fellow defendants Christopher Travis Porambo, 32, and Felicia A. Beckwith, 36, face multiple charges as well. Porambo’s bond is set at $11,000, while Beckwith’s bond is $4,000. Their next court appearance is scheduled for March 12.

Following the bust, all samples of the drugs have been sent to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s crime lab for further analysis, as authorities continue to investigate the case. ‘This operation reflects our commitment to tackling the drug epidemic in our community,’ Sheriff Sexton said in a statement.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may be drug-related.