Alabama Bassist Teddy Gentry Arrested for Weed Possession, Then Released 30 Minutes Later

Introduction

Teddy Gentry of Alabama Arrested for Marijuana Possession, Released Shortly After

In a brief yet surprising turn of events, Teddy Gentry — the legendary bassist and founding member of the iconic country band Alabama — was arrested in his home state for misdemeanor marijuana charges. The 70-year-old musician was taken into custody on a Monday morning and booked into the Cherokee County Jail on charges of second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. According to official jail records, Gentry was released less than 30 minutes later on his own recognizance.

The arrest occurred during a routine traffic stop when a sheriff’s deputy pulled Gentry over for speeding. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer reportedly discovered a small amount of marijuana and related items. A spokesperson for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that both charges were classified as misdemeanors, as Alabama law treats second-degree possession as indicating personal use only. While recreational marijuana remains illegal in Alabama, no further complications were noted during the stop.

Despite the unexpected incident, representatives for Alabama offered no comment but assured fans that the band’s scheduled tour dates — which run through December — remain unchanged. Gentry is expected to appear in court at a later date to resolve the matter.

Teddy Gentry has been an integral part of Alabama since its humble beginnings. Alongside his cousins Randy Owen and the late Jeff Cook, the trio formed the band in Fort Payne in the late 1960s under the name Wildcountry. By 1977, they had rebranded as Alabama and went on to change the landscape of country music with their signature harmonies and crossover success. With hits like “Mountain Music” and “Dixieland Delight,” Alabama has sold over 73 million albums and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2005.

Though minor, Gentry’s arrest serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate around marijuana laws in conservative states like Alabama.

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