TOCCOA - Authorities seized $268,000 worth of illegal drugs, arrested one suspect last week and are seeking another in a multi-agency drug investigation with ties to Hall County.
The seizure and arrest came when investigators with the Stephens County Sheriff's Office and Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) executed a search warrant last Thursday at 1097 Hayes Road in the Toccoa area, according to the ARDEO.
ARDEO Special Agent in Charge Mitchell Posey said the warrant stemmed from information developed by the Hall County Multi Agency Narcotics Squad and the U. S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
"We found five pounds of methamphetamine, a pound of marijuana and a half a pound of cocaine hidden within a wall at Christel Ivester's house," Posey said.
Two handguns were also located in the house, according to investigators.
While Ivester, 38, wasn't home during the time of the search, Posey said Marty Allen Smith, 37, of 500 Dooley Dr. Toccoa, was arrested in the driveway of the residence. He's charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
"When we encountered him, we could see a 30-30 rifle. He was a convicted felon, and that was obviously a problem for us and him," Posey said.
Agents found a small amount of methamphetamine in his pocket, according to Posey.
He said Ivester remained at-large Wednesday morning.
"We're still waiting on her to turn herself in. She actually has contacted us, but she's yet to turn herself in."
Ivester has active warrants for trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of firearm during the commission of a felony.
Posey said he doesn't expect any more arrests, other than Ivester.
