22 Grams Of Heroin, Marijuana Found In Car Involved In Wreck

CANTON, GA — A Canton man has been charged with trafficking heroin and other drug-related offenses after he was involved in an accident Tuesday in Cherokee County.

A deputy with the Cherokee Sheriff's Office made the bust after responding to the collision just before noon Jan. 15 on Cumming Highway/Ga. 20 near Scott Road in Canton.

While investigating the accident, the deputy "smelled a strong odor of marijuana" in a vehicle driven by Wesley Rich, 29, the Cherokee Sheriff's Office said. A search of the car led deputies to seize more than 22 grans of heroin, more than 20 grams of marijuana and $8,532 in cash, the agency added.

Rich, who the Cherokee Sheriff's Office said is a convicted felon, also had a 9-millimeter handgun concealed in his waistband.

CSO spokesperson Jay Baker said there was "very minor damage" to both vehicles involved in the collision. Rich is accused of rear-ending the car in front of him, he added.

The Canton resident was charged with trafficking heroin, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and following too closely. He is being held without bond at the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center.

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Photo 1: the drugs and cash allegedly found in Rich's vehicle.

Photo 2: Wesley Rich. Credit: Cherokee Sheriff's Office