Methamphetamine Lab In Ellijay Seized

On August 29th Gilmer County Deputies and Probation Officers with felony probation conducted an investigation at 179 Squirrel Lane in Ellijay. They were following up on a tip regarding Ronald Garrett and drug activity. While at the residence several items were seen that led deputies and probation officers to believe they had a possible methamphetamine lab. The drug task force was contacted, and confirmed that there was a lab upon arrival. Agents with the GBI were contacted to assist in the removal of the hazardous materials.
METH Lab waste to include “one pot” labs, plastic bottles with off white sludge, gas generators, empty ephedrine packages, stripped lithium batteries, drain opener, and ammonium nitrate, were discarded over a half acre area of woods. While conducting the investigation task force agents identified two other suspects, Benjamin Harrell and Heather Jipson.

Agents located Harrell and Jipson’s residence in the 9000 block of highway 52 east. While conducting a surveillance, agents witnessed Jipson and Harrell discard several bags of trash in the dumpster of the Dollar General Store at Big Creek Road. Agents moved in and retrieved three trash bags. The bags contained ten separate “one pot” METH Labs, lithium strips, empty Sudafed packs, and drain cleaner. Some of the bottles were still reacting “smoking” when the bags were removed.

Agents obtained a search warrant for Harrell and Jipson’s residence, and executed shortly after the discovery at the Dollar General. Items used to manufacture, package, and distribute methamphetamine were located inside the home. Twelve bags of garbage were discarded behind the residence in the woods. Once everything was collected, 11 “one pot” labs were located, along with 9 gas generators. In the trash items were located consistent with the other locations.

At both homes signs of fires were present both inside and outside the homes. Bottles were located with the sides burned through, which is consistent with a failed attempt to cook METH. The bags that were discarded in the dumpster were still reacting and could have easily started a fire. It is a wonder that anyone of these individuals have not ended up in the hospital. With all the ephedrine packages located at the homes, and what they have obtained from the pharmacies, they have manufactured several ounces of methamphetamine. With the packaging materials and scales located at both residences, it appears they were cooking to distribute.

Benjamin Harrell and Heather Jipson were not at home when the warrant was executed, and have active warrants for Trafficking Methamphetamine. If you have any information on their location please contact the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office or the drug task force.

The drug task force is supported by the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of the District Attorney. If you have any information about drug activity in Pickens, Gilmer, or Fannin Counties please call 1-866-920-6384 all calls are anonymous.