JACKSONVILLE — Four Alto residents were arrested following a six-week investigation by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Narcotic Investigators, Chief Investigator Cpt. Chris White said. It was part of a major drug bust conducted Tuesday near Alto.

White stated in a press release it happened at two homes on County Road 2432. The search and arrest operation was assisted by Sheriff James Campbell, Chief Deputy Keith Radcliff, the Cherokee County Special Weapons and Tactics Team and many more; about 25 law officers in all from multiple agencies.

“We’re real proud of these guys,” White said. “The investigation was lengthy and a lot of time was put into it.”

Ricky Brown, 31, was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, delivery of a controlled substance, a warrant for delivery of marijuana and a warrant for the delivery of a controlled substance. His total bond was set at $143,000 and he is still held by the county.

Charles Skinner, 57, was arrested on a warrant for delivery of a controlled substance. His bond was set at $50,000 and he has not been released as of Wednesday afternoon.

Patrice Buckingham, 39, was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance. Her bond was set at $8,000 and she remained in custody Wednesday afternoon.

Jacqueline Brown, 65, was arrested and charged with delivery of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance. Her bond was set at a total of $85,000 and she was released by Wednesday afternoon.

White stated investigators received information one or more people were selling narcotics in the area and they began conducting surveillance in January, 2010. This, he added, confirmed the report and more pro-active methods were utilized, including purchase of the drugs from individuals.

A search warrant for Ricky Brown was issued by County Court-at-Law Judge Craig Fletcher. Brown’s residence consisted of a mobile home, a wood framed residence, car ports, garages, a pool hall and numerous other structures, White reported.

Officers located and seized a Dodge Avenger, over $3,100 in case, nearly two pounds of marijuana valued at about $1,000, over 32 grams of powder cocaine at almost $2,000 and 11.6 grams of crack cocaine worth around $1,000. They also found assorted prescription pills, White stated.