An alert citizen and quick action by Clarkesville Police resulted in the arrest of three suspected drug traffickers. Officers arrested the suspects Sunday morning outside the Huddle House restaurant on Washington Street.
A police officer responded to the scene after someone phoned in a tip about suspicious activity in the area. During the investigation, officers seized approximately 42 grams of methamphetamine and a quantity of marijuana. They also seized around $600 in cash, says Clarkesville Police Chief Brad Barrett.
Police charged Kristie Whitfield, 44, of Mt. Airy, Heather Ausborn, 28, of Commerce, and Joshua Tharp, 38, of Ellenwood, with trafficking meth. Barrett says they’ll also be charged with possession of methamphetamine and marijuana with intent to distribute and possession of drug-related objects. According to officials Whitfield also had outstanding drug warrants.
The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the investigation. Chief Barrett says the case is an example of why the ‘If You See Something, Say Something’ awareness campaign is so important.
“I’m very proud of the officers and very thankful to the caller that recognized the suspicious activity,” Barrett tells Now Habersham. “Without good citizenship, our job would be merely impossible.”
Whitfield, Ausborn, and Tharp were booked into the Habersham County Jail and are now awaiting bond hearings.
“It’s always great anytime we can seize these types of dangerous drugs from our streets and put away these people who insist on distributing this poison to those who are weak and vulnerable,” says Barrett. “These drugs affect so many more lives than just the user.”
