One person has been arrested following a drug investigation that resulted in the discovery of large quantities of meth and fentanyl.
Over the past few months, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division has been investigation a drug trafficking organization linked to Jaquez Sturgis, who was identified as a major distributor of large quantities of meth and fentanyl in the Augusta-Richmond County area.
Following a nearly six-month investigation on June 1, the RCSO, along with the Crime Suppression Division, executed search warrants at the 200 block of East Hale Street, 100 block of Tybee Court and 1300 block of Marks Church Road (apartment complex).
During the searches, authorities seized 20,100.08 grams (44 pounds) of meth, 2,345.6 grams (5 pounds) of fentanyl, $18,346.00 in U.S. currency, two firearms and one vehicle.
Sturgis has been arrested and charged with V.G.C.S.A. trafficking in methamphetamine and V.G.C.S.A. trafficking in fentanyl. Other charges, including possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime are expected.
RCSO stated this is the largest meth seizure in Augusta’s history.
“I want to personally thank and commend the outstanding work of our Narcotics Division and Crime Suppression Division. This seizure is not only historic in scope — it represents lives potentially saved from fatal overdoses and communities protected from the violence that often accompanies the drug trade. Our goal is to relentlessly pursue those who poison our neighborhoods with these deadly substances. I could not be prouder of the tireless efforts of our investigators and every deputy involved in this operation,” said RCSO Sheriff Eugene Brantley.
The investigation is ongoing and more arrest may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division at 706-821-1400 or submit tips anonymously through the RCSO app or Crime Stoppers.
