Drugs and Weapons Seized In Search of Columbus Home

Following a lengthy investigation into suspected drug activity, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant just after 2:00 p.m. at 316 North Florida Street in Columbus on Tuesday afternoon.

During the course of the search, investigators located suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia in addition to firearms, cash and a marijuana grow operation.

According to Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves, “Inside the home was a hidden room, where a somewhat sophisticated indoor growing operation was set up.  Numerous marijuana plants, with an initial estimated street value of $40,000.00, were being hydroponically cultivated.”

Arrested at the scene was Fredrick “Eddie” Sears, 46, of the home.  Sears is currently being held in the Cherokee County Jail on allegations of Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Use of a Firearm.

His bond is currently set at $71,000.00, pending the filing of formal charges.

“This is yet another case of inherently dangerous illegal drug activity occurring too close to one of our area schools.  While this particular home was just out of range to qualify for the enhanced charge of Intent to Distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, with classes set to begin in the coming weeks, and children likely walking by, I’m proud of our investigators for disrupting this operation,” concluded Sheriff Groves.

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