Two Men Arrested, 16 Pounds of Marijuana Seized in Columbus Drug Investigation

Staff Report

Two men were arrested after a narcotics investigation in Columbus led to the seizure of more than 16 pounds of marijuana, two firearms, and nearly $4,000 in cash, according to the Columbus Police Department.

Investigators with the department’s Special Operations Unit began looking into Eric Gibbs for allegedly distributing narcotics in the Columbus area, Assistant Chief L.H. Deaton said in a release. Gibbs was seen driving a 2020 Ford Fusion, prompting officers to request assistance from the Georgia State Patrol and the Georgia Department of Motor Carrier Compliance for a traffic stop.

A state trooper pulled Gibbs over for a traffic violation, and police said a search of the vehicle uncovered approximately 16 pounds of marijuana with a street value of more than $74,000 and a handgun. Gibbs was taken into custody.

A search warrant executed at Gibbs’ residence uncovered another 182.8 grams of marijuana valued at about $1,800, an additional firearm, and $3,885 in cash. Justin Harris, who was at the home, was also arrested.

Gibbs was charged with trafficking marijuana, possession of drug-related objects, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Harris faces charges including possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of drug-related objects.

Police credited the Special Operations Unit, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Georgia Department of Motor Carrier Compliance for their cooperation and “quick response” during the investigation.