Gwinnett Daily Post

BARROW COUNTY -- Barrow County officials said months worth of investigation paid off last week after the sheriff's task force arrested seven on drug-related charges.

During two separate drug raids, deputies seized methamphetamines, marijuana, U.S. currency, drug paraphernalia and a 9mm pistol.

Police executed a search warrant July 25 at 166 North Fifth Ave., Apt. C in Winder, where residents Don J. Newton and Laurie Bales were arrested and charged with trafficking methamphetamines.

Lt. Matt Guthas said officials seized about one quarter pound of methamphetamine and more than $26,000 in cash. Guthas said street value for the drugs was about $5,000.

A second search warrant was executed July 27 for 755 Ridgeside Road, Bethlehem. Five residents of the home were arrested and faced various charges. Guthas said deputies discovered various amounts of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia throughout the house.

Henry Dewayne Aikens, Timothy Lee Mize and Sandra Hope Hinkson were arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, while Cody Alan Conn and Courtney Renee Patterson were arrested and charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

Many of those arrested face additional charges, Guthas said.