Tennessee pair arrested on meth charges during G'ville traffic stop

GAINESVILLE - A man and woman, both from Tennessee, have been arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop last week on I-985.

Gainesville Police Cpl. Kevin Holbrook said officers stopped a passenger vehicle on the highway to investigate an equipment malfunction. He said during the investigation, officers found two lbs. of crystal methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $32,000.

In addition, Holbrook said officers confiscated $3,000 in cash during the arrest.

Arrested in the investigation were the driver of the vehicle, Thomas Dean West, 42, of Whitesburg, TN and a passenger, Lee Anne Bishop, 53, of Bean Station, TN.

West has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine, removed/defaced ID or license plate and no proof of insurance.

Bishop faces charges of trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of methamphetamine.

Both West and Bishop remain in custody at the Hall County Jail.