In March of 2025, the LaGrange Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit began receiving information on a possible drug trafficker within Troup County. As part of the preliminary investigation, John Poythress IV was identified, and it was determined that Poythress was trafficking large amounts of marijuana into the City of LaGrange. Over the next several months, members of the Special Investigations Unit continued gathering intelligence on Poythress using a number of covert resources.
On February 25, 2026, investigators determined that Poythress was in possession of a large amount of marijuana and was currently transporting it back to LaGrange. At approximately 10 pm that evening, members of the Special Investigations Unit, along with members from the patrol division and K9 division, conducted a traffic stop on Poythress as he entered the City of LaGrange. During this encounter, investigators located 30 pounds of marijuana along with a handgun, hidden inside the vehicle Poythress was driving.
Based on the evidence recovered during the traffic stop and information gathered throughout the investigation, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant at Poythress’s residence located at 2 Burke Street later that evening. During the search, investigators located an additional 15 pounds of marijuana, along with two firearms.
In total, investigators located approximately 45 pounds of marijuana and 3 firearms. Poythress was transported to the Troup County Jail, where he is charged with Trafficking Marijuana and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony.
Anyone with information pertaining to this investigation is encouraged to contact Sergeant Clint Stephens at 706-883-2646.
Individuals who wish to remain anonymous can submit tips through the Tip411 system. This can be done via the mobile application, through the online portal, or by texting the keyword LAGRANGE to 847411. These channels are designed to ensure the public can share critical information confidentially and securely.
