FITZGERALD, Ga. (WALB) - A teacher and football coach at Veterans High School was among three people arrested Sunday after the Ben Hill County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division executed a search warrant at a West Orange Street residence.

The operation was conducted at 309 West Orange Street on the morning of March 1, according to the Ben Hill County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation was led by Case Agent Gary Rogers, Investigator James Skinner, and Investigator Grayson Watson.

The case began in January after investigators received information that Kerrion Smith, a school teacher and football coach at Veterans High School, was allegedly transporting pounds of marijuana into Ben Hill County, according to police.

Three arrested, multiple felony charges filed

Following the search warrant, three people were arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, along with numerous additional felony charges.

During the operation, deputies seized:

Two vehicles

Approximately 581.7 grams (1.28 pounds) of marijuana

$4,816 in U.S. currency

Three handguns

Residence near school campus

The residence is located within 1,000 feet of the former Fitzgerald High School campus, which is still utilized by staff and students for various activities.

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