STATENVILLE —
Authorities arrested a man following the discovery of drugs in an Echols County residence this week.
On March 17, 2010, a joint operation conducted by the Echols County Sheriffs Office and the South Georgia Drug Task Force resulted in the arrest.
According to reports from Sheriff Randy Courson, authorities had received several complaints of illegal narcotics being sold from a residence. As a result, the Echols County Sheriff’s Office and the South Georgia Drug Task Force obtained a search warrant for property and a residence.
A search of the residence located a quantity of cocaine and marijuana as well as a scale and baggies which are indicative of the intent to sell narcotics, Courson said.
A further search of the residence resulted in the seizure of several firearms, one possibly stolen in an Echols County case and a Honda Rancher 4-wheeler which was reported stolen in a Lowndes County case, according to reports.
Authorities searched a car, reportedly finding marijuana and prescription pain medication, which was located in an unmarked prescription bottle.
Phillip Touchton of Echols County was taken into custody, authorities said. He is charged with felony possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute, felony possession of a controlled substance (hydrocodone), felony theft by receiving stolen property, felony possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and misdemeanor possession of marijuana, according to the sheriff’s office.
The investigation continues and more charges and arrests are possible.
Courson is thankful of the efforts of all involved and encourages citizens to continue to call in any suspected criminal activity located in their areas. Callers may remain anonymous. The Echols County Sheriff’s Office phone number: (229) 559-5603. The South Georgia Drug Task Force number: (229) 482-3109.
Local News
Drug arrest in Echols
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