July 8th, 2022 – 2:50 PM

Floyd County Police Department –

A Shannon trio remains in jail Friday after police discovered a marijuana harvesting operation at
their home in the former mill village. Police also uncovered 63 animal remains and malnourished dogs
that were removed by authorities.

The arrests were made by officers in the area working to clean up and revive the area with
concentrated patrols and contact with residents. A previous operation that targeted blight in Lindale was
very successful and officials expect the same return in Shannon.

Stephen Shuler 35, is being held with no bond and has been charged with felony drug charges that
include manufacturing and distributing marijuana, felony aggravated animal cruelty offenses, firearms
violations and several traffic offenses.

The EPD division of uniformed patrol was in Shannon on Thursday conducting inspections and follow-ups when they observed Shuler riding a dirt bike through the small community with no helmet. He refused to stop by police and drove away. Another officer saw him moments later when Shuler darted down a side street. The motorcycle was found in front of a residence and officers converged onto
Second Street Extension while a search warrant was being prepared.

Officers walking nearby found the marijuana field and informed others, which led to the discovery of three outdoor operations and one indoor facility within a mobile home. Police found a total of 137 marijuana plants in all stages of growth. Several firearms were also found on the property which resulted in additional charges due to Shuler being a convicted felon.

Large bins on the property contained the remains of 63 chickens in various stages of decay. A mother dog and her puppies were also found and displayed severe signs of malnutrition; Animal Control took custody of the dogs, as well as a duck and a chicken.

Other relatives were arrested due to their involvement with the animal and drug offenses. Wendy Shuler, 54, has a $15,000 bond for animal cruelty and drug offenses. Darrin Shuler, 56, has a $15,000 bond for animal cruelty, drug offenses, and firearm violations.

In addition to EPD and uniformed patrol from Floyd County Police, the HEAT unit took an active role in investigation as well as the metro drug task force and HIDTA (High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area task force from U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency), Rome Police crime suppression team, Georgia State Patrol Aviation and Animal Control