ATHENS, Ohio — A 22-year-old Athens man was arrested Thursday on multiple drug trafficking charges after investigators executed a search warrant at a Franklin Avenue residence, according to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.
Granville Christopher Collins was taken into custody at 64 Franklin Avenue following an investigation by the Athens County Drug Task Force into cocaine trafficking in the city, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.
During the search, investigators recovered suspected cocaine, a firearm, evidence consistent with drug trafficking, and a large sum of U.S. currency, according to the release.
Collins was charged with multiple counts of trafficking in a controlled substance. He was also charged with trafficking within a designated school zone, an offense that carries enhanced penalties under Ohio law, according to the release.
Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues, according to the sheriff’s office.
Collins was transported to the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail.
“This arrest reflects our continued commitment to protecting our community—especially our schools—from the dangers of illegal drugs,” Sheriff Rodney Smith said in the release. “We will not tolerate criminal activity that puts our children and neighborhoods at risk.”
The Athens County Drug Task Force conducted the investigation with assistance from the Athens Police Department.
The case will be forwarded to the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office for review.