Death Investigation Leads to Fentanyl-Related Manslaughter Arrests

From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — On Tuesday, September 9^th, Dekalb County Deputies, Ider Police Department, and Dekalb Ambulance Service responded to a medical call in the 100 block of AL HWY 75 in Higdon. Upon arrival, first responders discovered Kimberly Ann Little (53) deceased inside the residence. Drug Paraphernalia was also observed in plain view, and the Dekalb County Drug and Major Crimes Unit was notified and responded to the scene. Investigators then began a Drug-related Death Investigation.

Upon the execution of a search warrant at the residence, Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia were discovered. After gathering evidence from the scene and interviewing multiple subjects present, the individuals below were charged with the following charges:

Vanessa Taylor Whitmoyer(29 of Higdon)was charged with Manslaughter-Fentanyl, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (x2), Tampering with Physical Evidence, Promoting Prison Contraband 2^nd, and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2^nd.

Leland James McDowell (68 of Higdon)was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1^st and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Crystal Lynn Benson (44 of Higdon) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “Illegal narcotics continue to destroy families and communities and put lives at risk.  This case is a reminder of the devastating consequences these substances can have.  Our office is dedicated to hold individuals accountable in cases where reckless or illegal actions contribute to the loss of life.

 We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the victim

 “God Bless!” Concluded Sheriff Welden.

https://www.dekalbcountysheriff.org/

https://weisradio.com/2025/07/15/during-the-month-of-june-18-charged-in-dekalb-county-with-drug-related-charges/

https://weisradio.com/2025/06/09/fugitive-nabbed-after-rooftop-escape-attempt-in-ider/

https://weisradio.com/2025/06/05/2-arrests-in-ider-after-lengthy-drug-operation-investigation/