Investigators with the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office Crime Suppression Unit made five arrests last Thursday when they busted a drug manufacturing and distribution ring based on an anonymous tip.
Upon arrival, investigators immediately recognized a strong odor of marijuana coming from the residence on Lula Garrett Rd. After securing the residence and occupants, the Sheriff’s Office applied for and received a search warrant for the premises.
The search netted a large amount of illegal drugs, pills, packaging materials, processing equipment, ledgers, cash and a firearm.
Officers seized 29.7 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 94 grams of suspected psilocybin mushrooms, over a pound of suspected THC gummies and suckers, suspected LSD, suspected THC dab, approximately one-and-a-half pounds of suspected marijuana, 11 suspected marijuana plants, over 200 suspected THC vape cartridges, and various other drug-related items.
The investigation resulted in the arrest of five individuals. Two of those arrested, Jeremy Holbrooks and Ryan Scott Flowers, were charged with multiple felonies and a misdemeanor. The other three individuals arrested were charged with being party to a crime, a felony in Georgia.
“I am proud of the work our law enforcement officers are accomplishing. These professionals are doing a phenomenal job combating illegal drugs within our community; while striving to keep our community safe and secure,” said Sheriff Jeff Johnson. “This is a prime example of the success we enjoy as we partner with our community. As we steadfastly believe – no one knows your neighborhood as well as you do. We welcome your calls and your concerns. You can remain anonymous.”
All defendants remain in custody and are being held without bail; except for Oglesbee. He was released on 6/3/19 pursuant to a bond order.
One of the biggest concerns coming from the bust was the amount of THC-laced candy that was seized. According to the sheriff, “when you experience seizures of this variety, we must assume that the intended recipients are younger adolescents. Items such as brightly colored suckers, packaged gummy candy, etc. would lead one to believe that our community’s children are being targeted.”
The presence of hundreds of vaping cartridges also seems to be potentially dangerous to the kids and adolescents of our community, with whom vaping has become increasingly popular and increasingly problematic.
“This seizure of over 200 vaping cartridges should also alarm our community,” said Sheriff Johnson. “Parents and caregivers should understand the dangers associated with vaping and recognize that the introduction of illegal substances into these devices is all too common.”