HART COUNTY, Ga. — A routine traffic stop in Hart County on December 26 led to the arrest of two individuals on multiple drug-related charges, according to the Hart County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said a deputy conducted a traffic stop at approximately 3:14 p.m. on a gold 2001 Ford Windstar van traveling on Elberton Highway at Hodges Mill Road. The driver was identified as David Donald Diehl, 43, of Hartwell. The deputy recognized Diehl and was aware of an outstanding warrant for his arrest from Banks County.

While deputies awaited confirmation of the warrant, a search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search, deputies reported finding approximately 22 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, plastic baggies, syringes, and an additional unidentified brown substance. Investigators also recovered a driver’s license that had previously been reported stolen in an unrelated entering-auto case.

Diehl was taken into custody and charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, theft by receiving stolen property, and possession of drug-related objects.

The passenger in the vehicle, Michelle Lynn Smith, 38, of Danielsville, was also arrested. Smith faces charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, theft by receiving stolen property, possession of drug-related objects, and obstruction.

Both individuals were transported to the Hart County Jail without incident.

In a statement, Sheriff Chris Carroll commended deputies for their efforts, noting the arrest helped remove dangerous drugs from the community.