Traffic Stop Reveals Existence of Meth Lab in Marietta, GA

Police say that a routine traffic stop led to the discovery of a large methamphetamine conversion lab in a residential neighborhood in Marietta. The lab was found near multiple elementary schools. The lab was uncovered by DEA Atlanta special agents and task force officers following the traffic stop.

Authorities announced the arrest of three individuals in connection with the lab which was found on Pair Road. Authorities say they seized approximately 500 kilograms of methamphetamine. The suspects who were arrested were found to be Guatemalan nationals. They are believed to be undocumented immigrants.

Authorities believe that the immigrants were here for the sole purpose of producing methamphetamine for distribution not only in Atlanta but all across the East Coast.

Drug labs and drug trafficking in Georgia 

O.C.G.A. 16-13-30 (2010) makes it illegal to possess, manufacture, deliver, or traffic controlled substances. The State of Georgia severely punishes drug crimes and this is especially true when it comes to methamphetamine. If you have been charged with possession of methamphetamine in Georgia, it is wise to consider hiring an experienced Georgia drug lawyer.

Under Georgia law, methamphetamine is part of Schedule II which includes other drugs such as crack cocaine, morphine, opium, and methadone. O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30(a) states that it is unlawful for any person to purchase, possess, or have under their control any controlled substance. O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30(a) reads:

Except as otherwise provided, any person who violates subsection (a) of this Code section with respect to a controlled substance in Schedule I or a narcotic drug in Schedule II shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than two years nor more than 15 years. Upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense, he shall be imprisoned for not less than five years nor more than 30 years.

Essentially, Georgia has a mandatory minimum when it comes to methamphetamine possession. Any individual convicted of possessing methamphetamine (a Schedule II substance) can be sentenced to a minimum prison term of 2 years behind bars and a maximum of 15 years. If this is a second offense, the individual can face a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years.

In this case, the defendants were found possessing a trafficking quantity of meth. If you are found in possession of more than 28 grams of meth, you can be charged with trafficking methamphetamine.

Talk to a Cobb County and Marietta, GA Drug Trafficking Attorney Today 

Georgia is very strict when it comes to drug offenses. Those guilty of mere possession can face mandatory minimum sentences under the law. The penalties escalate depending on the quantity of the drug found. Those facing charges under Georgia law for drug crimes will need to hire an experienced Cobb County criminal defense attorney to represent their interests during the prosecution of their case. Call Andrew L. Schwartz, P.C. today to schedule an appointment, and allow us to begin preparing your defense immediately.

Source:

fox5atlanta.com/news/traffic-stop-cobb-county-leads-discovery-large-meth-lab