A tip to the Multi Agency Crack Enforcement Drug Task Force led to the arrest of a man suspected of manufacturing methamphetamine in Liberty County  and the discovery of another active meth lab in Long County.

MACE Lt. Jeff Hein said the task force received a tip Monday that David Gilbert, who was wanted in connection with the operation of a meth lab raided Oct. 7 in Gum Branch, was staying at a residence on Elim Church Road in Long County. When MACE agents, Long County Sheriff’s Office deputies, U.S. Marshals and Georgia Bureau of Investigation  agents went to investigate, they didn’t find Gilbert but instead discovered an active meth lab. Three suspects were arrested and charged with the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine and the possession of firearm during the commission of a felony, according to Long County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Danny Dinkins.

Investigators later learn-ed Gilbert might have been staying at a residence in Wayne County. Representatives from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals and MACE agents converged on the home on Angela Road around 5 p.m. and found Gilbert, who gave up without incident. He is being housed in the Liberty County Jail in Hinesville and has been charged with the manufacture, distribution and sale of methamphetamine and six counts of cruelty to children.  

Liberty County Sheriff Steve Sikes said Tuesday that he’s pleased with the apprehension of Gilbert.

“A lot of work went into catching Gilbert. I’m proud of the work that my officers and the MACE and the U.S. Marshals task force did in arresting Virginia  Burke earlier this month and the recent arrest of Gilbert.”