The Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) is being recognized by the GBI for its investigation of an alleged heroin trafficking ring in North Georgia. Authorities say the Michelle “Cinnamon” Dorsey heroin trafficking organization was responsible for moving more than $100,000 worth of heroin in and around Habersham and for contributing to at least two known drug overdoses.
The Dorsey investigation established a new investigative protocol for the investigation of drug overdose cases that has since been adopted statewide. For its efforts, ARDEO received a Deputy Directors Award on January 23 from GBI Director Vernon Keenan.
Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney George Christian commends ARDEO and the Sheriffs who operate within the circuit for a “job well done.” He stresses the importance of their continuing efforts.
“Unfortunately we have seen an increase in drug overdoses in the Mountain Judicial Circuit. Some of the overdoses have resulted in the death of the drug user,” says Christian. “The GBI, Sheriffs Terrell (Habersham County), Nichols (Rabun County) and Shirley (Stephens County) and the District Attorney’s Office are committed to investigating and prosecuting drug cases and drug overdose cases.” He says they’ve partnered with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecute cases in Federal Court.
ARDEO is made up of GBI agents and task force agents from multiple local and state agencies including the Sheriff’s Offices in Habersham, Banks, Franklin, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns and White Counties, the Cleveland Police Department, Lavonia Police Department, the Georgia National Guard Counter Drug Task Force and Department of Public Safety.
To report suspicious drug activity call or message ARDEO at 706-348-7410 or contact your local law enforcement agency.
