11/02/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ONGOING DRUG CONSPIRACY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO TWO ARRESTS AND SEIZURE OF NARCOTICS AND SUSPECTED DRUG PROCEEDS
Abingdon, VA – November 2, 2026 – The Washington County Sheriff's Office has arrested two individuals following an ongoing narcotics investigation that resulted in the ex*****on of two search warrants and the seizure of multiple illegal drugs and U.S. currency believed to be proceeds from drug distribution.
On October 15, 2026, narcotics detectives with the Washington County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at a residence in the Hillman Highway area of Washington County, Virginia. The search warrant was executed without incident.
During the search, detectives seized approximately three-quarters of a pound of methamphetamine, co***ne, psilocybin (mushrooms), and additional Schedule I, III, and IV controlled substances. Detectives also recovered U.S. currency believed to be proceeds from illegal drug activity.
As the investigation continued, detectives developed additional leads and information connecting the suspects to another location. On October 26, 2026, a second search warrant was executed without incident at a location associated with the two individuals. This search resulted in the seizure of additional methamphetamine and U.S. currency believed to be drug proceeds.
As a result of the investigation, two Abingdon residents were arrested and charged.
Zonya Kindley Gales, 63, of Abingdon, Virginia, was charged with:
• Virginia Code § 18.2-248(H): Possession with intent to distribute 200 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
• Virginia Code §§ 18.2-256 and 18.2-248(H): Conspiracy to distribute 200 grams or more of methamphetamine.
• Virginia Code § 18.2-248: Possession with intent to distribute multiple controlled substances, including crack co***ne (Schedule II), psilocybin (Schedule I), alprazolam (Schedule IV), bromazolam (Schedule I), and Suboxone (Schedule III).
Mary Elizabeth Gales, 36, of Abingdon, Virginia, was charged with:
• Virginia Code § 18.2-248(H): Possession with intent to distribute 200 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
• Virginia Code §§ 18.2-256 and 18.2-248(H): Conspiracy to distribute 200 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Both individuals are currently being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail in Abingdon, Virginia.
