Sheriff drug trafficking takedown

     Sheriff Randy Shirley this week announced the takedown of a drug trafficking organization earlier this month.
     Shirley said that on Friday, March 3, the Sheriff’s Traffic Interdiction Narcotics and Gangs unit (STING) obtained a search warrant for a Cheek Smith Road address.
     Shirley said the investigation into distribution of methamphetamine from that location “was conducted over the course of two months.”
      “Over the course of the investigation, approximately 60 grams of methamphetamine was purchased,” Shirley said.
    “During the execution of the search warrant, an additional 10 grams of methamphetamine, along with digital scales and packaging material, were seized and $2,968 in cash.”
     Shirley said investigators also seized the suspect’s vehicle and nine firearms.
     The investigation resulted in the arrest of Kenneth Stacy Mize, 41, of Toccoa.
     Mize was charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine, and nine counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
     “He (Mize) is currently being held at Stephens County Jail on a denied bond,” Shirley said.
     Also arrested was Timothy Steele, 53, of Toccoa, on charges of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and nine counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
    Shirley said Steele is being held at the jail on a denied bond.