A man who distributed hundreds of kilos of methamphetamines from his workplace in Athens has been sentenced to serve two life sentences in federal prison.
James Len Ramey, 54, pleaded guilty in October 2025 to conspiracy to distribute meth and possession with the intent to distribute meth.
Investigation determined that Ramey’s supplier received the liquid meth hidden in boxes of jalapeños imported from Mexico.
Law enforcement said the meth was converted at a lab in a house in Monroe and distributed from Rapid Lube in Athens, where Ramey worked.
During a period of five months in 2024, the lab had manufactured about 3,400 pounds of meth, according to the federal document.
At least a dozen suspects were arrested due to the investigation.
“I’m proud of the collaboration and teamwork invested in this case, which led to the seizure of a significant amount of dangerous drugs. These substances have devastating effects on our community and far too often claim lives unnecessarily,” said Athens-Clarke County Police Chief Jerry Saulters.
