Massive drug bust in Paulding County: Meth, fentanyl, and firearms seized

Paulding County drug bust

Drugs and guns are off the streets in Paulding County. The sheriff says one man is now in jail and there could be others involved.

HIRAM, Ga. - Authorities in Paulding County seized methamphetamine, fentanyl and more than a dozen firearms during a drug bust at a home in the Lake Swan neighborhood, leading to one arrest and the possibility of more.

What we know:

John Burch, 45, was taken into custody after investigators with the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office and the Northwest Georgia Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at the residence. Officials say the investigation began after neighbors reported suspicious activity at the home, which sits on a street where children are often seen playing.

John Burch (Paulding County Sheriff's Office)

Inside, deputies found bags of meth and fentanyl, as well as 14 firearms.

"That fentanyl alone could have killed literally thousands of people," said Paulding County Sheriff Ashley Henson. "So getting these types of drugs, especially fentanyl, off the streets is vital to public safety."

Henson added the firearms seized will no longer be available for potential criminal use.

"Those are guns that are not going to go out and be able to be used in the commission of any types of crimes," he said.

Burch faces numerous charges. Investigators believe he was selling drugs from the home, and the sheriff’s office said additional arrests could follow as the investigation continues.

What they're saying:

Jason Coutu, who lives one street over, said the bust did not come as a shock given the area’s growth in recent years.

"It’s crazy. I mean, it is crazy. But it’s everywhere," said Coutu. "I’m just glad Paulding County is doing a good job and taking care of it."

Sheriff Henson said his office remains focused on reducing crime and drug distribution in the community.

"I don’t care if it’s a gram or pounds—anytime you get drugs off our streets, you get guns off our streets that are in the hands of criminals, then we’ve done something good," Henson said. "So I chalk this one up as a win for the good guys."

What we don't know:

Burch's next court date was not immediately known.