Kirby Man Arrested on Drug and Obstruction Charges Following Welfare Check

A 53-year-old Kirby man was arrested on drug and obstruction charges following a welfare check by the Pike County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a report from the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Troy Thomas responded on September 3rd, 2026, to a report of a truck allegedly being driven recklessly and later parked near Cowhide Cove Road off Highway 27.

While traveling to the area, Thomas located the truck parked along Highway 27 near Shawmut Road, just south of Cowhide Cove Road. The vehicle was occupied, and Thomas approached to check on the welfare of the driver.

The driver was identified as Russell Barrett, 53, of Kirby. According to the report, Thomas observed Barrett displaying unusual behavior and instructed him several times to exit the vehicle. Barrett reportedly refused to comply.

Deputies Bret Reid and Jim Garrett arrived to assist. After deputies gained access to the vehicle, Barrett eventually exited and was placed under arrest for Obstructing Governmental Operations.

While the vehicle was being inventoried prior to being towed, Deputy Reid reportedly located two bags containing a crystal-like substance suspected to be methamphetamine. The substance field-tested positive for methamphetamine, according to the report.

Barrett was transported to the Pike County Detention Center, where he was booked on charges of Obstructing Governmental Operations and Possession of a Controlled Substance, two grams or more but less than ten grams.

The charges are allegations, and Barrett is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.