NEWS FROM THE SHERIFF ’ S OFFICE  

02/19/08

 “ Mushrooms and Marijuana Lead to Arrest ” Mushrooms and Marijuana led to four felony counts for Evan Leon Lee (24) of Dahlonega. The investigation began on February 17 th , 2008 when deputies responded to 171 Laurel Circle in order to conduct a follow up investigation related to an earlier vehicle pursuit in Dawson County. Deputies observed marijuana leaves in plain view outside the residence and saw what appeared to be a mushroom grow inside the home. Lumpkin County ’ s Appalachian Drug Task Force Agent responded to the scene. During a search of the residence the agent located packaged psilocybin (hallucinogenic) mushrooms, an active psilocybin mushroom grow, an active marijuana grow consisting of seven plants, grow lights and other drug paraphernalia. After further investigation it was determined Evan Leon Lee was responsible for the manufacturing of the mushrooms and marijuana. Evan Leon Lee was not at the home when the operation was seized but was arrested the next day by Lumpkin County Sheriff ’ s Office and the Appalachian Drug Task Force. Mr. Lee was charged with the following offenses: -Possession of more than an ounce of Marijuana -Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute -Manufacturing Marijuana -Manufacturing Psilocybin Mushrooms “ After 22 years in law enforcement I ’ ve never actually seized an indoor psilocybin mushroom grow ” said Sheriff McClure, “ this type of seizure is extremely rare ” . Lee is being held at the Lumpkin County Detention Center on a $25,100 bond. Some photographs of the seized operation are shown below. Captain Jason Stover Lumpkin County Sheriff ’ s Office