Joint Operation Seizes $15K in Fentanyl and Meth in Oakwood; Two Arrested

A collaborative narcotics investigation by the Lanier Regional Drug Task Force (L.R.D.T.F.) and the Hall County Narcotics Unit has resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of a substantial quantity of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

The joint operation culminated in the execution of a search warrant at the Jameson Inn on Thurmon Tanner Parkway in Oakwood, Georgia. Authorities took Ricky L. Blackwell, 39, and Lauren N. Rutledge, 32, into custody at their residence.

At the conclusion of the investigation and search warrant, a total of 60.0 grams of methamphetamine and 64.0 grams of fentanyl were seized. The combined street value of the confiscated narcotics is estimated at $15,515, effectively halting their distribution efforts into several counties.

Both defendants have been charged with trafficking methamphetamine and trafficking fentanyl. The L.R.D.T.F., in conjunction with other agencies, reaffirmed their commitment to combating the nation’s fentanyl pandemic, which continues to impact families in Dawson County. The task force stated it would continue its efforts daily to stop the distribution of illegal narcotics within Dawson County, even if it means pursuing drug dealers outside its jurisdictional boundaries.