Released by the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office …
HOLMES COUNTY – 22-year-old Tristan Lee Viers of Chipley is facing multiple charges after becoming disruptive at a local church service Sunday, January 19.
The Sheriff’s Office said there has been some confusion as to why Viers chose to go to the church, but explained that he entered the sanctuary and began an argument with a former girlfriend – which included him grabbing and tugging on a small child. The Sheriff’s Office said they agree with others that it would be awesome if his purpose in entering the church was to seek help and support. Unfortunately, that was not the case, and he is additionally charged with cruelty toward a child – aggravated abuse.
Members of the church’s safety team, which included off-duty law enforcement officers, were able to quickly escort Viers outside the sanctuary, where they were met by deputies with the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office.
A search of Viers’ person resulted in the discovery of a bag of methamphetamine, and a search of his vehicle resulted in deputies locating an additional bag of methamphetamine and a loaded hunting rifle.
Viers was arrested and is charged with possession of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a place of worship, narcotic equipment possession/use, disturbing the peace – school, religious, lawful assembly, possession of a firearm during a felony, and disorderly conduct.