An Atmore man was arrested Saturday after he was found in possession of “spice,” a synthetic form of marijuana.

Billy McCaster, 52, of 224 Liberty St., was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to the Escambia County Detention Center and was later released on a $5,000 bond.

Investigator Scott Walden with the 21st Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force (DTF) said that Atmore Police Department officers and Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputies executed a search warrant on McCaster’s home Saturday. Walden said he had received information that McCaster was selling spice.

According to Walden, when the officers arrived on the scene, McCaster attempted to flee. After a short chase of 20 yards, APD Officer Stephen “Andy” Taylor managed to apprehend him.

Walden said that APD Officer Jonathan Kelly found two plastic bags that were later identified as spice, which McCaster attempted to throw away as he was running.

Deputy Danny Lambert of the Escambia County K-9 Unit, and his dog Ajax, searched the property and discovered about 20 additional empty bags that once contained spice, Walden said.

Law enforcement officials also discovered a gun on the property, and are checking to be sure it is not a stolen weapon. Walden said additional gun-related charges could be pending against McCaster.