Waleska, Cherokee County, Ga. May 29, 2008- During the past month, agents of the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS) conducted an investigation into an outdoor marijuana grow in northern Cherokee County. A concerned citizen reported a possible marijuana grow to CMANS agents in April. As a result of the CMANS investigation, agents discovered two well hidden marijuana fields. Aerial and ground surveillances were conducted. Evidence indicates the operation has been on-going for several years.

On Wednesday, May 28, 2008 agents executed an early morning operation to eradicate the marijuana plants. CMANS agents were assisted by the Cherokee County SWAT team and K-9 Units, as well as the Department of Defense Drug Task Force. The DOD Drug Task Force provided both ground and aerial support. The result of the operation was the seizure of 9350 growing marijuana plants with an estimated street value of $11,220,000. The estimate is according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation standardized drug values for 2008. This is the largest marijuana grow in the history of the Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad. At this time no arrests have been made, however, it is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about narcotics activity is encouraged to call the CMANS Drug Tip Hotline at 770-345-7920.