Athens County, Ohio – Two Athens County residents were arrested on felony drug charges Friday after task force investigation.
According to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office and Athens County Task Force, Jody Smith, 44, and Lashawnda McGrath, 43, were taken into custody on charges related to drug trafficking and possession.
Authorities said Smith and McGrath were each charged with one count of trafficking in drugs, a fourth-degree felony (F4), and one count of possession of a controlled substance, a fifth-degree felony (F5). Officials allege the charges stem from an ongoing narcotics investigation conducted by the task force.
Details about the circumstances of the arrests, including where they occurred or the specific substances involved, were not immediately released. The sheriff’s office said additional information may be made available as the case proceeds.
Under Ohio law, a fourth-degree felony trafficking charge can carry potential prison time and fines upon conviction. A fifth-degree felony possession charge may also result in incarceration and court-imposed penalties.
Both individuals were booked into custody pending court proceedings. It was not immediately clear Friday whether either had retained legal representation.
Drug trafficking investigations remain a focus for local law enforcement agencies across the county, particularly as officials continue efforts to curb the distribution of controlled substances. The case may draw attention from young adults and families concerned about community safety and substance misuse.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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