Hart County, Ga. — A routine traffic stop in Hart County led to the arrest of two individuals after deputies discovered a significant quantity of suspected methamphetamine and drug-related items inside a vehicle, according to the sheriff’s office.
Traffic Stop Turns Into Drug Investigation
The incident occurred around 3:14 p.m. on December 26 along Elberton Highway near Hodges Mill Road, when Hart County deputies stopped a gold 2001 Ford Windstar. Authorities said the stop was initially routine, but circumstances quickly escalated.
Sheriff Chris Carroll said the deputy immediately recognized the driver as 43-year-old David Donald Diehl of Hartwell and was aware that Diehl had an outstanding warrant from Banks County. Deputies detained Diehl while confirming the warrant and proceeded to search the vehicle.
Methamphetamine and Drug Paraphernalia Discovered
During the search, deputies reported finding approximately 22 grams of suspected methamphetamine inside the van. In addition to the drugs, authorities said they recovered several items commonly associated with drug distribution and use, including:
- Digital scales
- Plastic baggies
- Syringes
- An unknown brown substance still pending identification
Deputies also located a driver’s license reported stolen in an unrelated entering-auto case, further expanding the scope of the investigation.
Charges Filed Against Driver
Based on the evidence recovered, Diehl was taken into custody and charged with multiple felony offenses, including:
- Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute
- Theft by receiving stolen property
- Possession of drug-related objects
Officials noted that the intent-to-distribute charge was supported by the quantity of drugs and the presence of packaging and weighing materials.
Passenger Also Arrested
The passenger in the vehicle, 38-year-old Michelle Lynn Smith of Danielsville, was also arrested at the scene. Deputies charged Smith with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, citing her alleged involvement connected to the drugs found during the search.
Authorities did not specify whether Smith had any outstanding warrants at the time of the stop.
Booking and Ongoing Process
Both Diehl and Smith were transported to and booked into the Hart County Jail, where they remain pending further court proceedings. Jail records indicate the charges are felonies and could carry significant prison time if convictions are secured.
Investigators said additional testing will be conducted on the unidentified substance recovered from the vehicle, and further charges could be possible depending on lab results.
Continued Focus on Drug Enforcement
Sheriff Carroll emphasized that traffic stops remain an important tool in combating illegal drug activity across Hart County. Deputies regularly conduct patrols aimed at identifying impaired drivers, stolen vehicles, and individuals wanted on outstanding warrants.
Law enforcement officials encourage residents to report suspicious activity and stressed that drug trafficking continues to pose serious risks to community safety.
Conclusion
What began as a routine traffic stop quickly turned into a major drug arrest, highlighting how everyday patrol work can lead to significant enforcement actions. Authorities say the investigation remains active as the case moves through the judicial system.
Share your experiences or thoughts on drug enforcement efforts in your community in the comments below.
