Cherokee County -- April 23, 2026: A disguise involving a long red wig wasn’t enough to help a wanted felon evade justice this week. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office reported the arrest of Tracy Lee Mason on April 21, 2026, following a coordinated effort by the Narcotics Division.
The Stop and Attempted Disguise
The incident began on West U.S. 64, about a mile past Golden Road, when agents attempted to conduct a vehicle stop. According to authorities, the vehicle did not stop immediately. To prevent a high-speed pursuit, agents took proactive measures to bring the vehicle to a halt.
Upon identifying the driver, law enforcement discovered Mason was wearing a long red wig, an apparent attempt to mask his identity and avoid recognition by local deputies.
Outstanding Warrants and New Charges
Mason was already a wanted man in Cherokee County, having failed to appear in Superior Court for a litany of serious charges. At the time of the stop, his outstanding warrants included:
Felony Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle
Two counts of Felony Possession of Methamphetamine
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver a Schedule II Controlled Substance
Felony Obtaining Property by False Pretenses
Multiple misdemeanor offenses
The search of the vehicle following the stop yielded further evidence of criminal activity. Agents seized a quantity of methamphetamine, digital scales, packaging materials, and $2,370 in cash.
As a result of the Tuesday encounter, Mason faces a new slate of charges, ranging from Felony Possession with Intent to Manufacture, Sell, or Deliver to misdemeanor charges for fleeing, driving with a revoked license, and displaying a fictitious registration plate.
Bond Status
Mason is currently being held at the Cherokee County Detention Center. He received a $110,000 secured bond for his previous failure to appear charges, but he is currently being held without bond for the new offenses committed on April 21.
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Image: Cherokee Sheriff's Office