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Georgia Fruit Stand Accused of Fronting Meth Sales as Two Arrested, One Sought

A months-long probe launched by a community tip led agents to seize 270 grams of meth, uncovering sales hidden among merchandise.

Overview

  • The GBI’s Northwest Georgia Drug Task Force with Paulding County K-9 and SWAT units executed an Oct. 24 search near the stand at Highway 92 and Georgia 120.
  • Agents seized 270 grams of methamphetamine during the operation, an amount authorities describe as consistent with trafficking.
  • Deputies arrested Melvin Stevens, 37, on five trafficking counts and one possession count, and Athena Alloway, 49, on four trafficking counts and one possession count.
  • A warrant names Crystal Ballweg, 39, who remains wanted as authorities seek tips through the Sheriff’s Office Warrant Division.
  • Investigators say some drugs were hidden among merchandise, including inside a Krispy Kreme bag, and officials have not said how long the sales had been running.