Martin now faces federal meth charges

By DUANE SHERRILL / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

MARTIN

Federal meth charges have been leveled against a Blues Hill man who lawmen say was a “major player” in the drug trafficking business.

The suspect, Michael A. Martin, 43, of Dan Jones Road was arrested Wednesday on federal meth conspiracy charges. He will be arraigned before a federal judge in Chattanooga in the near future.

According to Sheriff Jackie Matheny, the arrest came following an extensive investigation by the sheriff’s department and federal authorities. The investigation culminated with a raid on Martin’s home Wednesday in which numerous items commonly used in the production of meth were found.

“He’s been a big player here for many years,” Matheny said. “These charges could put him behind bars for a long time.”

At the time of his arrest, Martin was free on bond, awaiting trial on meth charges filed against him last year. Those charges will be adopted by federal prosecutors and joined with the new conspiracy charges.

Matheny noted Martin may face 10 years to life in prison for the combination of charges since federal sentences tend to run much longer than do state sentences.

The Michael Martin arrested is not the Michael Martin who serves as 5th District County Commissioner.