Mark Hankins, 47
In May of 2015, the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office received information that two associates (both on probation/parole) living in Dalton were distributing large amounts of methamphetamine. The subjects were identified as Mark William Hankins, 47, and Timothy Ezelle, 54. Several hours of surveillance were conducted on the individuals and their residences.
On Wednesday, Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office and Agents from the State Probation/Parole searched the two residences occupied by these individuals. The first residence located at 899 East Summit Dr., Dalton, belonged to Hankins. Upon entering the residence officers discovered over a pound of methamphetamine, a quantity of marijuana, mushrooms, assorted pills in violation of the controlled substance act, two firearms, smoking pipes and other items; including over $2,000 in cash.
Investigators and State Officers then traveled to Ezelle’s residence located at 121 Fairway Dr., Dalton. Upon entering the residence, methamphetamine and marijuana were found on his person, and while conducting a search of the residence additional bags of methamphetamine and marijuana were discovered. Also found were digital scales used to weigh the drugs and smoking devices.
Hankins is charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of Oxycodone, possession of Clonazepam, possession of a Schedule 1 hallucinogen, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of tools for the commission of a crime.
Ezelle is charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of tools for the commission of a crime.
The street value of the illegal narcotics seized is over $50,000. Both subjects are being held at the Whitfield County Jail without bond.
Timothy Ezelle, 54