The GBI arrested Lumpkin County’s tax commissioner on Tuesday. State investigators say Mike Young faces charges related to the unauthorized possession of controlled substances.
The Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office asked the GBI to investigate allegations that Young was using his office’s influence to obtain illegal drugs.
State investigators say they were unable to establish a connection between Young’s alleged drug activities and his public office. However, they did determine he was “illegally obtaining and using prescription pills.”
The GBI charged the 57-year-old tax commissioner with possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, use of a communication facility to commit a felony, and conspiracy to purchase controlled substances.
Young, who is in his first term as tax commissioner in the North Georgia county, is also an associate pastor in Dahlonega.
He turned himself in at the Lumpkin County Detention Center and was booked on the charges. He was later released on bond.
The GBI says when its investigation is complete, it will be turned over to the Enotah Judicial Circuit for prosecution.
