A months-long drug investigation into a fentanyl distribution organization in Jackson and Banks counties led to five arrests. Authorities also seized guns, cash, and a large amount of drugs, according to the GBI’s Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO).
On June 29, police arrested William “Faye” Lomack, 48, of Maysville, and Tony Clough, 54, of Marion, Virginia, after a traffic stop in Commerce. Officers say they found approximately 450 grams of suspected fentanyl, two firearms, and a large amount of cash during the traffic stop.
Police then executed search warrants at a Commerce motel and a home in Maysville connected to Lomack. Authorities say they found suspected fentanyl in the motel room and arrested two more suspects – Chante Presley, 28, of Richland, Virginia, and Stephanie “Sticks” Guthrie, 38, of Winder.
When agents searched the home in Maysville, they found four firearms, over 28 grams of suspected fentanyl and approximately 28 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Police arrested Nicole Pressley, 37, of Maysville, at the house.
More arrests expected
Investigators charged all five suspects with trafficking and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Lomack and Clough, both convicted felons, and Pressley also face weapons charges. Agents charged Pressley with possession of a Schedule II controlled substance and Presley with possession of a Schedule IV controlled substance.
Officials transported Guthrie to a local hospital for treatment of an undisclosed condition. They booked Lomack, Clough, and Presley at the Banks County Jail and Pressley at the Jackson County Jail.
The investigation was part of a multi-agency operation that included the sheriff’s offices in Banks, Jackson, and Stephens counties, as well as the FBI’s Gainesville office, Georgia State Patrol, GBI’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit, and ARDEO.
The case remains under investigation and additional arrests are expected, says ARDEO Special Agent in Charge Trent Hillsman.
To report drug activity, call GBI ARDEO at (706) 348-7410. You may also submit anonymous tips by calling 1-800-597-TIPS(8477), using the GBI tipline, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
