Pratikkumar Patel (Source: Effingham Co. Sheriff's Office)The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency lists products such as spice, K2 or others as a type of incense but says they have the same effects as smoking marijuana.More >>
EFFINGHAM CO., GA (WTOC) -
A man arrested during a search of a Rincon gas station by the Effingham County sheriff's deputies appeared before a county judge on Wednesday morning.
The Quest Quik Stop gas station on Highway 21 in Rincon was searched as part of a longterm spice investigation by the Effingham County Sheriff's Office Drug Suppression Team.
Pratikkumar Patel, 25, of Pooler, was arrested and charged on Tuesday with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, sale of controlled substance, and possession of drug-related objects.
Patel appeared before an Effingham County magistrate judge.
Judge Scott Hinson sent his case to Superior Court, where they will have to set a bond. Patel will remain in jail until that time.
The investigation started several weeks ago after the team got a tip that the gas station was selling spice and devices to smoke it, according to the sheriff's office. Agents bought spice and pipes from the store during the investigation. The Rincon Police Dept. participated in Tuesday's search operation.
Patel is being held at the Effingham County Jail.
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