2 Arrested, $750K Worth of Meth Seized In Cherokee Drug Operation

HOLLY SPRINGS, GA — Two people were arrested and a conversion lab along with about 17 pounds of fentanyl-laced methamphetamine was seized after a two-month drug investigation, the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office said Monday. The drugs were worth about $750,000, the sheriff's office said.

The sheriff's office's multi-agency narcotics squad led the probe, which began in early February. Authorities said the purpose of the investigation was to dismantle a drug-trafficking organization they say was responsible for selling meth throughout the county.

Agents and SWAT members raided a home in unincorporated Cherokee near Holly Springs on April 19, where they say they found the meth conversion lab. Authorities said some of the meth that was seized was believed to be produced and processed for distribution at the home.

James Aldred, 36, and Lynnette De Becker, 72, both of Canton, are being charged on suspicion of two counts of trafficking in methamphetamine, two counts of fentanyl, manufacturing methamphetamine, manufacturing fentanyl, sale of methamphetamine, sale of schedule 1 narcotic and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. They are in custody without bond, authorities said.

"This operation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement personnel working tirelessly to keep your families safe," Cherokee County Sheriff Frank Reynolds said in a news release, who is also the CMANS control board chairman. "We will continue to hold people engaged in drug trafficking accountable for their actions. This operation is a clear indication of our teams unwavering commitment to achieving this goal.”