The Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team made numerous crystal methamphetamine-related arrests last week, including those of Effingham County residents, following several investigations.
On April 18, CNT arrested Jonathan Gaines, 39, of Springfield, Kyle Jenkins, 28, of Rincon, Miranda Wilson, 28, of Eden, and Corey Smith, 30, of Ellabell. All four were arrested Gaines attempted to sell crystal methamphetamine with the assistance of Jenkins, Wilson and Smith. Various forms of controlled substance were seized in the operation in addition to the crystal methamphetamine.
On Wednesday, CNT, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals, arrested Jason Tillman, 40, and James Ward III, 29, both from Bloomingdale. Tillman was in possession of a stolen vehicle at the time of his arrest, according to CNT. Ward was arrested in Statesboro and was in possession of a firearm. During an investigation into Ward and Tillman, undercover CNT agents made several purchases of crystal methamphetamine from the men.
Ward’s Facebook page displayed Tuesday a post that suggested he knew he was wanted, that he was not turning himself in and gave his opinion about the police, specifically CNT. Two stolen vehicles were recovered during CNT’s investigation into Ward and Tillman and four vehicles were seized in the above mention operations.
CNT, with assistance from the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit, arrested 31-year-old Brandon Holton of Eden on Thursday. Holton was wanted in connection of a joint CNT/ECSO operation where Holton was selling crystal methamphetamine.
Also Monday, CNT agents arrested Amanda Walker, 27, of Savannah, Sarah Kment. 30, of Richmond Hill, Brandon Elrod, 28, of Ellabell and James Tyson, 32, of Savannah.
According to CNT, Walker and Kment were posting as escorts on Backpage. CNT, who is familiar with Walker from previous arrests, arranged a meeting with an undercover agent. During the meeting, all parties agreed to exchange crystal methamphetamine and sexual favors for money. Elrod and Tyson were arrested in connection with the operation.
Four vehicles were seized in the above mention operations.
All persons arrested remain in the Chatham County Detention Center. The investigations are ongoing and additional charges and arrests are expected.
