Four Arrested after Driver Dumped Meth

When Cherokee County Deputies attempted to pull over a vehicle earlier this week, they observed the driver throw something out the window. The driver, 48-year-old Woodstock resident Richard Lindsey, then led the officers on a chase as he attempted to flee. After the deputies were finally able to pull over the vehicle, they discovered that the object thrown out of the window was a bag of methamphetamine.

Though the bag did not have much meth in it, it was enough for the officers to obtain a search warrant for Lindsey's home. According to reports, agents from the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad discovered more than 10 pounds of meth, 9 pounds of marijuana, 2 THC vape pens, 14 grams of hashish, and 21 grams of psilocybin mushrooms. On top of leading to many more charges against Lindsey, the discovery also led to the arrest of three more people.

Richard Lindsey has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of THC oil, possession of psilocybin mushrooms with the intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, failure to maintain lane, weaving, and attempting to elude officers. In today's post, I'll be discussing the charge of trafficking methamphetamine.

Trafficking Methamphetamine in Cherokee County

As a Cherokee County DUI Attorney, many of my cases involve drugs and/or alcohol. A lot of people get confused about the difference between trafficking, manufacturing, selling, and possessing methamphetamine. The simple answer is that the amount of meth discovered makes the difference.

OCGA § 16-13-31(e) defines the crime of trafficking methamphetamine as when a person sells, delivers, or brings into this state, or who is in possession of 28 grams or more of methamphetamine or amphetamine.

The amount of meth discovered at the time of the charge will also determine what punishment you may be facing. For between 28 and 200 grams, there will be a fine of $200,000 and a mandatory prison sentence of 10 years. If you are caught with 200 to 400 grams, there will be a fine of $350,000 and a mandatory prison sentence of 15 years. For any amount more than 400 grams, there will be a $1 million fine and a mandatory prison term of at least 25 years.

As you can see, a charge of trafficking methamphetamine in Cherokee County is not merely a slap on the wrist – it can have far-reaching, lifelong consequences. However, there are several options a competent defense attorney can use on your behalf. Many courts offer the potential of Drug Court, which requires participants to go through mandatory treatment, regular drug testing, and more. Though the program is strict, it could lead to the dismiss of the felony drug charge should it be successfully completed.

Practice Note

There are many other defenses to a trafficking methamphetamine charge that can aid you in your case. At the Law Office of Richard S. Lawson, our Cherokee County DUI Attorneys will work with you to ensure you have the best defense possible. If you or a loved one is facing charges of trafficking methamphetamine or DUI in Cherokee County, call today – we are open 24/7, 365.