Michael Ferrell Price, also known as “Cheese,” has been sentenced to 87 months in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine and possessing firearms and explosive devices. The sentencing took place on August 21, 2025, before United States District Judge Eleanor L. Ross. Price, 68, operated out of his mother’s home in eastern Cherokee County, where he also ran an illegal moonshine still.
Authorities began investigating Price in September 2024 after suspicions arose about drug activity at the property. On October 22, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant and found over three ounces of high-purity crystal methamphetamine, several gallons of homemade moonshine, dozens of illegal explosive devices, and more than 150 firearms. Among the weapons were two machineguns, a short-barreled rifle, five silencers that were not registered as required by law, a stolen revolver, and a firearm without a serial number.
Federal law prohibits individuals who abuse controlled substances from possessing firearms or explosives. Price pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025 to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by an unlawful drug user. He will serve four years of supervised release following his prison term.
“Price posed a clear danger to the community by selling methamphetamine and distilling moonshine while maintaining an illegal stash of explosive devices and more than 150 firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Thanks to the collaboration of federal agents and local law enforcement, Price has been brought to justice for his crimes.”
“This case demonstrates the results we achieve when federal, state, and local law enforcement work hand-in-hand,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “By combining resources and expertise, we were able to dismantle a criminal operation that threatened both public safety and the rule of law.”
“Stockpiling weapons while trafficking drugs is a recipe for tragedy,” said Major Walter Jones, Director of Drug Enforcement-Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad. “Price’s sentencing should make clear that those who choose that path will face serious consequences.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation along with the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad; assistance was provided by the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages parents and children to learn about drug dangers through resources such as www.justthinktwice.gov and www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov.
Further information can be obtained from the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office or at http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
