Two men were arrested in separate narcotic take-down operations on March 2, according to a news release from Patrick County Sheriff Dan Smith.
Johnny Miranda, 24, of Morrow, GA, was arrested at approximately 5 p.m. in connection with an alleged incident that involved the delivery of more than one and a half pounds of methamphetamine in the Ararat community, Smith said.
Miranda was taken into custody without incident by the Tactical Response Team.
The methamphetamine was seized, according to Smith, who added it has a street value of approximately $40,000. He explained that large quantities of methamphetamine are sold per gram to street level dealers, typically at $60 to $80 per gram.
“This is how dozens of drug addicts are infected, poisoning our community with thefts and other unwanted bi-products caused by the methamphetamine epidemic,” Smith said.
Miranda was charged with possession with intent to distribute more than 227 grams of a Schedule II narcotic (methamphetamine). He is being held in the Patrick County Jail without bond.
Also on March 2, around 8 p.m., Joshua David Sawyers, 38, of 1455 Simpson Mill Road, Mount Airy, N.C., was arrested in connection with an alleged attempt to deliver approximately one ounce of methamphetamine in the Ararat community.
An alleged stolen rifle and a handgun also were found, according to Smith.
Sawyers allegedly fled as deputies from the Tactical Response Team gave commands to surrender. He was apprehended moments later by K9 Crash, and was subsequently treated by medical personnel for minor injuries, Smith said.
Sawyers was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is being held in the Patrick County Jail without bond.
As the investigation continues, Smith said he anticipates a multitude of narcotics and firearms charges are forthcoming.
The two incidents are unrelated, according to the sheriff, who added that Miranda and Sawyers do not know each other.
Patrick County Sheriff’s Lt. Nicholas Pendleton and investigator Brian Hubbard led the investigations.
Authorities in Surry County, N.C. and Carroll County, Va., assisted in the operation.
“We are grateful for the close working relationship we share with our adjoining jurisdictions,” Smith said.