Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie announced Thursday that the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Rincon Police Department, conducted a joint drug operation in Effingham County.

Early Thursday, investigators with both agencies conducted simultaneous search warrants at two different residences.

During this operation, thousands of dollars in illegal drugs were seized as well as stolen firearms, U.S. currency, vehicles, and numerous other drug related items.

The five individuals arrested were Michael Benjamin, of Rincon, Keith Fehnel, of Rincon, Stefanie Barnes, of Rincon, Pernell Ross, of Guyton and Janine Eisenburg, of Guyton.

Each of the individuals face multiple charges to include trafficking cocaine, trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking prescription medication, and various other drug related charges.

Michael Benjamin faces additional charges of possessing a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Sheriff McDuffie is committed to these types of operations, in an effort to rid our community of individuals that would present a threat to the citizens of Effingham County.