DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden and Sheriff’s Office Investigators received a complaint by a concerned parent regarding a part-time deputy by the name of Joshua Dane Wells (40 of Fort Payne).  Wells was not employed full-time by the Sheriff’s Office and was currently in the Alabama Law Enforcement Police Academy attempting to complete his certification to become a law enforcement officer.  

An immediate investigation was started regarding this complaint. After interviews with various citizens, it was determined that Wells had violated the policy and procedures of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and was therefore terminated.  Investigators contacted the 9th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, ALEA, and the FBI for assistance with this case.  After further investigation, it was determined a warrant could be issued for the arrest of Joshua Wells pertaining to inappropriate sexual conduct with minors.

Wells was arrested and booked into the Cherokee County Jail on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Due to his employment with DeKalb County, Investigators contacted the outside agencies to receive assistance with the investigation, as well as to house Wells in an adjacent county’s detention center.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “This past week has been a hard week for our office and our community. This event is a black eye to our office and also the entire law enforcement community.  Law enforcement officers are expected to be held to the highest standard and when mischief is alleged, it is not taken lightly. This type of behavior cannot and will not be tolerated! The last investigation that we want to conduct is an investigation into one of our own, however right is right and wrong is wrong no matter who you are! The investigation is still ongoing and additional charges could be pending. Please be in prayer for all involved in this case and for our office as we move forward with serving you!”

“God Bless!” Concluded Sheriff Welden.