A tip to law enforcement led to the discovery of a large meth lab in Franklin County. The lab was run from a horse stable equipped to manufacture millions of dollars worth of crystal methamphetamine, officials say.
Drug agents began investigating after being tipped off to suspicious activity at 2064 New Franklin Church Road in Canon. They discovered the active lab while executing a search warrant on the property.
“The structure was a horse stable being used to convert liquid methamphetamine to crystal methamphetamine for distribution,” says Trent Hillsman, Special Agent in Charge of the GBI’s Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office.
Due to the size of the lab, agents contacted the DEA Clan Lab Team to help collect evidence and dispose of hazardous materials. Agents seized approximately five kilograms of finished crystal methamphetamine and 255 gallons of liquid methamphetamine solution, Hillsman says. He estimates the lab was capable of producing over 700 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of over $7.8 million.
On August 24, authorities arrested Dustin Tyler Burgess, 34, of Ellijay, and Uriel C. Mendoza, age 30, of Copperhill, Tennessee, in connection with the operation. They charged them with trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and manufacturing methamphetamine in the presence of children.
The sheriff’s offices in Franklin, Banks, and Hall counties and the Georgia State Patrol assisted with the investigation.
To provide tips on criminal activity, look for ARDEO@appalachiandtf on twitter or follow on facebook@appalachianrdeo and Instagram.
