Three suspects remain behind bars following their recent arrests in Habersham and White counties on drug trafficking charges.
Ronald Bafile and Cody Fendley of Cleveland, and Megan Bafile of Dahlonega were arrested the week before Christmas. The Bafiles were picked up on Tuesday, Dec. 19, following a high-speed chase in Baldwin. Fendley was arrested the day before as part of what the GBI describes as a “multi-day operation.”
The operation was carried out by the White County Sheriff’s Office, the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, and the Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO). The Cleveland Police Department also assisted, the GBI says.
The joint effort resulted in the three arrests and seizure of more than $15,000 worth of illegal drugs.
Authorities charged the 38-year-old Fendley with trafficking methamphetamine and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. He was also wanted on previous charges of aggravated assault, terroristic threats, and criminal trespass.
The Bafiles are each charged with trafficking meth, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, and possession of a controlled substance (Xanax). Both had prior convictions on unrelated charges and had a Smith & Wesson .380 with them at the time of their arrest, arrest warrants show.
Ronald Bafile, 42, is also charged with fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, while Megan Bafile, 31, is charged with obstruction of law enforcement. Both remain in the Habersham County Detention Center without bond.
Fendley is being held in the White County jail.
During the operation, investigators say more than a pound of suspected methamphetamine, as well as suspected fentanyl and marijuana, were seized. The drugs have an estimated street value of $15,000.
The GBI says the investigation remains active.
ARDEO is a multi-agency unit that covers 30 North Georgia counties. Agents encourage anyone with information about drug activity to call ARDEO at 706-348-7410. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477) or online.
