Two people arrested in Unicoi after deputies find over a kilogram of methamphetamine

UNICOI, Tenn. (WJHL) – The Unicoi County Sheriff’s Drug Interdiction Deputies arrested two individuals on Thursday after discovering over one kilogram of methamphetamine, according to a release from Chief Deputy Frank Rogers.

After making a traffic violation stop on Interstate 26 in the Temple Hill area, deputies reportedly discovered the following upon searching the vehicle.

  • glass smoking pipes

  • assorted baggies

  • metal pipes with drug residue

  • NARCAN

  • marijuana

  • digital scales

  • grinder

  • counterweight

  • a large package weighing over a kilogram containing a crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine

  • a second bag of methamphetamine

  • $417.00

The driver, Elizabeth Ann Bolen, 41, of Kingsport, TN, was arrested and charged with the following, according to the release.

  • driving while in possession of methamphetamine

  • possession of marijuana

  • maintaining a dwelling for drugs

  • unlawful removal of a registration plate

  • unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia

The passenger, Zachary Alan Richards, 28, of Fall Branch, TN, was arrested and charged with the following, according to the release.

  • felony possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute

  • maintaining a dwelling for drugs

  • unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia

Deputies transported Bolen and Richards to the Unicoi County Jail. During an arraignment on Friday, the Unicoi County General Sessions Court set bail at $150,000 for Richards and $25,000 for Bolen.

This arrest is part of the enhanced drug interdiction program in force by the Unicoi County Sheriff’s Office.

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