Odd Circumstances Lead to Drug Charges in Towns County

TOWNS COUNTY, GA — What began as a traffic violation during a funeral escort Tuesday quickly developed into a major drug investigation requiring a specialized state response.

 Because of concerns for public safety and awareness, the Towns County Sheriff's Office is releasing this information to keep our citizens informed. The Towns County Sheriff's Office typically does not release details of open narcotics investigations until the case is closed. This protects operational integrity and ensures the safety of our Deputies and Investigators.

On September 15, 2026, at approximately 2:39 pm, Deputy Jeremy Stanley was assisting with a funeral escort when he observed a Chevrolet Malibu allegedly fail to yield to emergency vehicles leading the procession.

Deputy Stanley initiated a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 76, just west of State Route 75 South.

During the stop, Deputy Stanley developed probable cause to believe the driver was operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs. As the investigation continued, authorities discovered materials inside the vehicle believed to be consistent with a mobile or “rolling” methamphetamine laboratory. Recognizing the potential danger, Deputies immediately requested additional assistance. Traffic was stopped, and the area was secured under state safety protocols because of the potential presence of hazardous and volatile chemicals.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Clandestine Lab Unit was requested to respond to process and secure the scene as deputies worked to contain the rapidly evolving situation.

The male driver was transported to Chatuge Regional Hospital for evaluation. Deputy Stanley was also evaluated after experiencing possible symptoms related to exposure at the scene.

Both the driver and Deputy Stanley were later released from the hospital. The driver was subsequently taken into custody on preliminary charges of DUI–Drugs and Possession of Methamphetamine, with additional charges pending the completion of the investigation.

Sheriff Anthony Coleman commended Deputy Stanley for his actions and his service to the citizens of Towns County.

“Had it not been for Deputy Stanley’s actions, people could have been seriously injured. This individual was taken into custody before that could happen,” Sheriff Coleman said.

Sheriff Coleman also reaffirmed the Towns County Sheriff’s Office’s position regarding illegal drugs:

“Our stance on illegal drugs is simple: Don’t bring your drugs into Towns County. We will work tirelessly to prosecute those who deal, manufacture, possess, and use illegal drugs within our jurisdiction. Illegal drug activity will not be tolerated.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.