Middle District of Georgia
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Court Sets Preliminary Hearing for Diego Ibarra at Initial AppearanceRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Diego Ibarra, a Venezuelan citizen charged with possessing a fraudulent green card in Athens, Georgia, on Feb. 23, will have a standard preliminary hearing regarding probable cause and the government’s motion to detain on Thursday, March 7, at 10 a.m., as ordered by a U.S. Magistrate Judge at his initial appearance in federal court this afternoon.
Diego Ibarra, 28, of Venezuela, is charged by criminal complaint with possession of a fraudulent document. If convicted, Ibarra faces a maximum of ten years in prison. Diego Ibarra is the brother of Jose Antonio Ibarra, 26, of Venezuela, who is facing state charges for malice murder, felony murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, kidnapping, hindering a 911 call and concealing the death of another in the homicide of Laken Hope Riley.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with critical assistance from FBI, GBI, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, University of Georgia Police Department and Clarke County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.
Former Head of MCLB-Albany’s Environmental Division Convicted of Lying to Federal Agents Investigating Clean Water Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A federal contractor who served as the Head of the Environmental Services and Public Works Division at the Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) in Albany was found guilty by a federal jury this week of making false statements about his knowledge of whether a hazardous waste was pumped into the local community’s sewer system.
Brain J. Wallace, 59, of Leesburg, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of making a false statement to a federal agency on Feb. 28, following a three day jury trial that began on Feb. 26. Wallace faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date will be scheduled by the Court.
Co-defendant Horizon Environmental Services, LLC, pleaded guilty to reckless conduct on May 11, 2023, and was sentenced to two years of probation, 100 hours of community service, $900 in restitution to MCLB-Albany (Horizon’s profit for the contract work) and a $10,000 fine on Aug. 3, 2023.
U.S. District Judge Leslie A. Gardner is presiding over the case.
“Thankfully no hazardous waste made its way into the Flint River—a stunning ecosystem central to Southwest Georgia life—as a result of this gross deviation from the standard of care required by all industries disposing waste into our shared environment,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Federal prosecutors and our law enforcement partners will hold individuals and businesses accountable when their unlawful and reckless choices put people and our environment at risk.”
“Providing false statements to EPA Special Agents while investigating the illegal dumping of hazardous waste into the City of Albany’s sewer system and subsequent illegal transportation of the waste is a crime,” said EPA-CID Acting Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Martel. “This guilty verdict demonstrates the agency’s commitment to protect communities and their water resources and to hold those who materially falsify information accountable for their actions.”
According to court documents and evidence submitted at trial, MCLB-Albany provides facilities, infrastructure and tailored installation support services for operational forces worldwide. There is a production plant on base which disassembles old equipment—this includes stripping paint containing hazardous materials requiring proper disposal by federal law—and rebuilds the equipment. The production plant’s waste is processed by the industrial wastewater treatment plant (IWTP), which is also located on MCLB-Albany. The IWTP discharges the treated wastewater to the City of Albany, which is permitted to properly handle this waste and does so for other large-scale industries in the community.
On May 10, 2021, the rake on the clarifier (a settling tank that separates liquids from solids) at MCLB-Albany’s IWTP broke down, halting operations and impacting MCLB-Albany’s production plant, which relied upon the IWTP to properly process its waste. An emergency work order was issued to repair the rake. Before the clarifier’s rake could be repaired, the contents of the clarifier’s tank had to be removed. Horizon employees came to the base to meet with other base employees and contractors, including Wallace who was the Head of the Installation and Environment Division, Environmental Services and Public Works Division for MCLB-Albany. Horizon was subcontracted to vacuum the contents of the clarifier tank into sludge boxes, which can contain RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) hazardous waste and is to be handled with particular care. Horizon was not permitted by the EPA to transport or store hazardous waste. Horizon also admitted in court documents to acting recklessly and moving 40,000 gallons of sludge to and from the Base multiple times without properly documenting the contents of the containers. This type of manifest is critical; had some sort of spill occurred, first responders might have been unable to properly remediate, due to the lack of a manifest indicating the nature of the contents.
Court evidence showed that approximately 30,000 gallons of liquid layer from the clarifier was pumped into the City of Albany’s sewer system on May 10, 2021, through a manhole at the MCLB-Albany’s IWTP and that the City of Albany was not properly notified, as required by law. Wallace told EPA investigators that he was unaware of anyone pumping the liquid layer from the clarifier into the sewer system through the IWTP manhole; it was proven in court that he did know and therefore lied to EPA investigators.
There is no evidence of a spill or harm to the community. However, on May 12, 2021, there was a rainstorm in Albany which could have led to a resulting overflow before the liquid reached the City of Albany’s water treatment facility. When there is an overflow during a significant storm, the overflow runs into the Flint River before being treated. EPA has no reason to believe that the overflow from the May 12, 2021, storm ultimately drained into the Flint River, but this potential hazard would have been avoided had the City of Albany been properly notified so that they could have accepted the hazardous liquid from MCLB in a safe manner, as they are permitted to do.
The case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division (EPA CID).
Criminal Chief Leah McEwen and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elicia Hargrove are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Bloods Gang Member Who Shot at FBI Agent in Columbus Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Columbus resident and confirmed member of the Bloods criminal street gang who fired multiple rounds at an FBI agent to evade arrest in 2022 was sentenced to prison for his crimes this week.
Jarvis Smith, 29, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 117 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release on Feb. 27, after he pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault on a federal law enforcement officer, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person on Aug. 9, 2023.
Co-defendant Joshuia Johnathon Luke Brown aka “Black,” 26, was sentenced to serve a total of 319 months in prison on Jan. 29, after Brown was convicted by a federal jury of one count of forcible assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon, one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, three counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Sept. 18, 2023.
U.S. District Judge Clay Land handed down the sentences. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“Jarvis Smith and Joshuia Brown fired multiple rounds at an FBI agent, striking the agent’s car as well as a nearby home; thankfully, no one was injured or killed,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “All levels of law enforcement are working together to hold violent gang members accountable for their crimes and reduce violence in Columbus and across the Middle District of Georgia.”
“Anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer is dangerous and an extreme threat to public safety. Putting away violent criminals, like Brown and Smith, is one of the most important things we can do to protect our communities,” said Rich Bilson, Senior Supervisory Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Columbus office. “The FBI will not tolerate any act of violence against another individual, let alone against one of our own. Thankfully, no one—including our Special Agent—was injured during their act of terror. Columbus is a safer community with these gang members off the streets."
“The federal system leveraged justice for both cowards involved,” said Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman. “This wild west behavior is unacceptable. I am grateful for the work and courage our FBI agents displayed. I see the fruits of their labor in our community. It's making a huge impact with gang and criminal activity.”
According to court documents, federal agents were surveilling Smith and Brown in July 2022 as part of a larger and ongoing investigation into armed drug trafficking in the Columbus community. Through surveillance, agents observed a drug transaction involving Smith and Brown on July 28, 2022, in the vicinity of 1049 Winston Road in Columbus. At 4:35 p.m., Smith departed the scene in his car with Brown. FBI Agent S.A. conducted mobile surveillance as Smith traveled down Wade Street, turning south on Sheridan Avenue. Smith, who was driving, stopped his car in the middle of the road and he and Brown, who was a passenger, stepped outside of the car with weapons pointed in the agent’s direction and fired multiple rounds at the agent’s car, hitting the passenger door, the roof and the rear bumper of the FBI vehicle. One round traveled through the back of the FBI agent’s passenger seat, hitting a small bag on the front passenger side. Another round entered a private residence’s living room window, shattering a painting on the wall. The FBI agent was not injured during the shooting.
FBI and Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office units attempted to stop Smith’s car; Smith and Brown were able to elude law enforcement in a lengthy pursuit by car and on foot. Smith was taken into custody on July 28. After a manhunt that last several days, Brown turned himself in on Aug. 10. Law enforcement recovered a camo backpack dropped by Smith during the pursuit that held a fully loaded Glock pistol with an extended magazine, a fully loaded .380 semi-automatic pistol and ammunition. Also, several baggies containing methamphetamine, pills and other illegal drugs were found inside Smith’s backpack. A bag dropped by Brown during the pursuit contained a fully loaded Glock 19X handgun with an extended magazine. Two bullets recovered from the FBI agent’s vehicle matched the Glock 19X found inside Brown’s discarded bag. Both the Glock 19X and the Glock pistol were modified to operate as machine guns.
Smith is a confirmed member of the Bloods criminal street gang and has a prior conviction of aggravated assault, burglary and robbery in Muscogee County, Georgia, Superior Court, Case No. SU-13-Cr-1336. Brown is a member of US World, a hybrid criminal street gang based out of Columbus that is affiliated with other national criminal gangs. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from multiple agencies including the DEA, the Columbus Police Department, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the Phenix City Police Department and the Russell County, Alabama, Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Williams and Crawford Seals prosecuted the cases for the Government.
Undocumented Venezuelan Man Charged with Possessing Fake Green CardRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – An undocumented man residing in Athens—who is the brother of the suspect charged with murdering a woman on University of Georgia’s campus—was charged tonight by federal criminal complaint with possessing a fraudulent green card and is currently being held in state custody.
Diego Ibarra, 28, of Venezuela, is charged by criminal complaint with possession of a fraudulent document. Ibarra’s initial appearance has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Ibarra faces a maximum of ten years in prison. Diego Ibarra is the brother of Jose Antonio Ibarra, 26, of Venezuela, who is facing state charges for malice murder, felony murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, false imprisonment, kidnapping, hindering a 911 call and concealing the death of another in the death of Laken Hope Riley.
According to the criminal complaint and sworn affidavit, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) was made aware of Ibarra’s undocumented presence in the United States on Feb. 23, 2024. An Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) officer approached Ibarra earlier today because he matched the description of a suspect in the homicide investigation. Ibarra presented the officer with a U.S. permanent resident card (also called a green card) as identification. The card was determined to be fraudulent. Ibarra is a citizen of Venezuela and was processed for expedited removal but claimed a credible fear of return to Venezuela. He was consequently released from immigration custody pending adjudication of his claim for asylum on April 30, 2023.
According to the criminal complaint and sworn affidavit, since entering the country, Ibarra has been arrested three times by Athens law enforcement: on or about Sept. 25, 2023, Ibarra was arrested by ACCPD for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving without a license; on or about Oct. 27, 2023, Ibarra was arrested by ACCPD for theft by shoplifting; and on or about Dec. 8, 2023, Ibarra was arrested by ACCPD for failure to appear for a fingerprintable offense.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with critical assistance from FBI, GBI, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, University of Georgia Police Department and Clarke County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.
Retired South Georgia Teacher Admits to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A retired South Georgia school teacher pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) after authorities located hidden cameras inside his rental property’s bathroom filming young children bathing and undressing.
David Swanson, 61, pleaded guilty to one count of possessing child pornography before U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Feb. 22. Swanson faces a maximum of 20 years in prison to be followed by a maximum lifetime of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. In addition, Swanson will have to register as a sex offender upon release from prison. Swanson is not eligible for parole.
“Crimes against children are despicable, and it’s unthinkable when teachers or other trusted people are guilty of harming kids,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Our office prosecutes child predators to the fullest extent of the law. I am thankful for the excellent investigative work by our local and federal law enforcement partners that helped stop a child predator.”
According to court documents, a concerned citizen notified Ray City Police in March 2023 that she found a hidden camera in the home she rented from Swanson. The responding officer located a camera hidden in the bathroom’s ceiling plugged into an extension cord that ran through the attic. The officer also found two more cameras hidden in electrical outlets in the same bathroom. The SD cards from the cameras contained images of four children between the ages of one and 12-years-old taking baths, changing clothes and using the toilet. There was also a video clip of Swanson stepping on the toilet, reaching towards the ceiling and then placing a small black object in his pocket. All of the images were recorded between Jan. 21, 2023, and Feb. 28, 2023.
Authorities checked Swanson’s other rental properties in Lowndes County and Berrien County and did not find additional cameras at the other residences. A search warrant was executed at Swanson’s Valdosta home on March 3, 2023. Agents found approximately 750 images and videos of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and other incriminating evidence on his electronic devices. Some of the material included children nude in bathrooms, as well as minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The cameras were still set to record when they were found and removed from the home. This includes the CSAM that was downloaded as well as the CSAM images that he produced through the use of the hidden cameras. Swanson had recently retired as a teacher in the Lowndes County School System.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, Ray City Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals is prosecuting the case.
Gangster Disciples Assistant Chief Enforcer Sentenced to Life in Prison for Gang-Related MurdersRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A high-ranking member of the Gangster Disciples convicted of a murderous conspiracy stemming from gang-related retribution that resulted in the shooting deaths of three Athens, Georgia, men was sentenced to life in federal prison without parole today.
Lesley Chappell Green, aka “Grip,” 35, of Stone Mountain, was sentenced to life in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Feb. 20. Green, along with two co-defendants, was convicted by a federal jury of Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Organization (RICO) conspiracy on Aug. 17, 2023. Green is not eligible for parole.
“No sentence could ever ease the pain that Lesley Green inflicted on the families of the murder victims in this tragic case,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “The Gangster Disciples are a strategically violent organization whose members willingly committed these monstrous crimes. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia will join with our law enforcement partners to prosecute such crimes to the fullest extent of the law.”
“While this life sentence can never undo the loss of the affected family, it sends a message that justice will prevail,” said Athens-Clarke County Police Chief Jerry Saulters. “We are grateful to our officers for their continued support of this case and those involved in the prosecution. Our community is safer because of your efforts.”
“Protecting the safety of our communities is fundamental to what we do at the FBI,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Special Agent of FBI Atlanta Athens office. “The FBI is committed to reducing violent crime and combating the threat people like Lesley Green pose to our communities and residents. We are proud to work alongside our local, state and federal partners to bring violent members of criminal organizations the Gangster Disciples to justice.”
Two co-defendants convicted with Green at trial will be sentenced on March 20 in Macon:
Philmon Deshawn Chambers, aka “Dolla Phil,” 35, of Atlanta was convicted of Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Organization (RICO) conspiracy; Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering - Murder (VICAR-Murder); Carry and Use of a Firearm During and In Relation to a Crime of Violence; and Causing the Death of a Person Using a Firearm. Chambers faces a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison for the VICAR-Murder offense, and a maximum of life in prison for each of the remaining offenses.
Co-defendant Andrea Paige Browner, aka “Drea,” 29, of Athens, Georgia, was convicted of Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Organization (RICO) conspiracy; Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering - Murder (VICAR-Murder); and Causing the Death of a Person Using a Firearm. Browner faces a mandatory minimum sentence of life in prison for the VICAR-Murder offense, and a maximum of life in prison for each of the remaining offenses.
Two co-defendants previously entered guilty pleas and will be sentenced on March 22 in Macon:
Robert Maurice Carlisle, aka “Different,” 37, of Lithonia, Georgia, pleaded guilty to Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Organization (RICO) conspiracy on June 8, and is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison; and
Shabazz Larry Guidry, aka “Lil Larry,” 29, of Decatur, Georgia, pleaded guilty to Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Organization (RICO) conspiracy on June 8 and is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison.
According to court documents, Chambers held a “Position of Authority” within the national Gangster Disciples criminal organization, which included overseeing members of the “Enforcement Team.” The Enforcement Team is directed to discipline gang members using physical assault or murder. Co-defendant Green was a member of the Enforcement Team and held the title of “Assistant Chief Enforcer.” Co-defendant Browner was a member of the “Sisters of the Struggle” (SOS), a parallel female component of the Gangster Disciples, and held a leadership position in the gang.
Evidence presented at trial proved that on Dec. 10, 2018, Gangster Disciples member Walter Brown was murdered in Athens, Georgia. Chambers and Browner sought retaliation for Brown’s death and believed three unnamed Athens residents were responsible. On Dec. 14, 2018, Browner met Rodriquez Apollo Rucker, of Athens, at a downtown Athens hotel and learned that Rucker was related to one of the individuals she believed killed Brown. Browner texted Chambers, and Chambers came to the motel. Chambers followed Rucker home and shot and killed him. Browner notified an associate of the Gangster Disciples that she and Chambers would be leaving town because the police would be looking for them.
Browner was taken into custody in Mt. Enterprise, Texas, on Dec. 15, and Chambers got away. Chambers was suspicious that someone was cooperating with law enforcement and focused his suspicions on Derrick Ruff and Joshua Jackson who were, in fact, not cooperating with law enforcement. Chambers incorrectly concluded that Ruff and Jackson were “snitches” and directed Green, who held a subordinate position on the Enforcement Team, to carry out the murders of Ruff and Jackson.
Text messages and intercepted phone calls between Chambers, Green, Carlisle and Guidry revealed that Ruff and Jackson were lured by Green, as directed by Chambers, to drive from Athens to Lawrenceville to break into storage sheds and steal items to send to Chambers as “aid and assistance” as he was hiding out from law enforcement in a Gangster Disciple “safe house” in Killeen, Texas. The ruse worked, and Ruff and Jackson were murdered on Dec. 19 and their bodies concealed in the storage unit until March 17, 2019, when police with the assistance of cadaver sniffing dogs located them. Additional messages between Chambers, Green, Carlisle and Guidry showed that they conspired to dispose of the victims’ bodies, which included potentially burning the bodies or dumping the bodies in a landfill. Law enforcement recovered the bodies and made arrests before these plans could be carried out.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case is being investigated by FBI Athens Resident Agency Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, Athens-Clarke County Police Department and the Gwinnett County Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison of the Middle District of Georgia is prosecuting the case with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Walker of the Middle District of Georgia and the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Violent Crimes and Racketeering Section.
Middle Georgia Felon Sentenced to Prison for Mailing Guns to ChicagoRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. –A Middle Georgia resident with a felony criminal history was sentenced to federal prison for mailing packages containing handguns to different addresses in the East Side of Chicago.
Khalif Lee aka “Killa,” 29, of Barnesville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 65 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Feb. 7. Lee previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and one count of illegally mailing a firearm. Lee is not eligible for parole.
“We have zero tolerance for gun traffickers and will pursue justice in their cases in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “I want to thank the United States Postal Inspection Service and ATF for their ongoing efforts to intercept firearms before they get into the hands of dangerous individuals and criminal organizations plaguing our communities.”
“Among ATF’s top priorities is ensuring that firearms traffickers are aggressively investigated and swiftly brought to justice. This is an excellent example of such an investigation that was worked cooperatively by multiple partner agencies with outstanding results,” said ATF Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.
“This sentence sends a clear message that anyone who decides to maliciously utilize the mail system will be held accountable,” said Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division. “Postal Inspectors worked jointly with our law enforcement partners to prevent illegal firearms from getting into the hands of individuals that pose a threat to the public.”
According to court documents, United States Postal Service (USPS) workers found a suspicious package addressed to a location in the East Side of Chicago at an Atlanta processing and distribution center on Dec. 23, 2022. The package contained four handguns: a Berretta 9mm pistol, a Springfield XD-9 sub-compact 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol and a Hi-Point .40 caliber pistol. An investigation found that Lee lived at the sender’s address. A nonlicensee (an individual or organization not licensed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to buy or sell firearms) may not transfer a firearm to a non-licensed resident of another state. In addition, handguns are not mailable, but a common or contract carrier must be used to ship a handgun.
On Dec. 28, 2022, Lee attempted to mail another package to a different address in the East Side of Chicago. A federal search warrant was issued, and inspectors found the package contained four firearms: a Taurus 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol and a Glock .357 caliber pistol. Lee contacted USPS on Jan. 5, 2023, to inquire about the missing parcel and said that it contained his mother’s personal belongings. A forensic examination of both packages contained Lee’s fingerprints. Lee has a prior felony drug conviction in Gwinnett County, Georgia, Superior Court. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities; supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place; setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities; and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government.
Felon with Lengthy Criminal Past Pleads Guilty to ID Theft in Dark Web SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. –A Florida resident who is already serving more than a decade in federal prison for committing fraud in his home state pleaded guilty this week to a new aggravated identity theft charge in Southwest Georgia after being caught trading personal identification information with individuals on the dark web and teaching others how to obtain fraudulent bank loans.
Damien D. Dennis, 44, of Middleburg, Florida, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft before U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Feb. 7. Dennis faces a mandatory minimum of two years in prison to be served consecutively to 12 years imprisonment imposed in the Middle District of Florida to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. For more information about the Middle District of Florida conviction and sentencing, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/jacksonville-man-sentenced-12-years-federal-prison-bank-fraud-and-aggravated-identity. Dennis is not eligible for parole.
“Innocent people’s identities were stolen and used to create phony documents so other scam artists could commit all manner of theft and fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Damien Dennis was running an ID theft scheme that went so far as to teach other individuals how to commit fraud—including how to obtain bank loans—using other people’s stolen identities. Working alongside our law enforcement partners, our office is committed to holding fraudsters accountable and stopping these criminals from preying upon individuals and businesses.”
“This case is another example that clearly shows criminals are continuously looking for ways to steal from unwitting victims. In this case, victims were violated when Damien Dennis possessed their Personal Identifiable Information (PII) for the sole purpose of committing fraud,” said Resident Agent in Charge Clint Bush of the U.S. Secret Service’s Albany, Georgia, Resident Office. “The United States Secret Service, along with our state, local and federal law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate, arrest and support the successful prosecution of the criminals who choose to commit this and other types of financial fraud in our community and around the nation.”
According to court documents, the Ashburn Police Department pulled Dennis over for speeding on Feb. 25, 2020; Dennis was driving with a suspended license and was taken into custody. Inside Dennis’s car, officers found eight drivers licenses belonging to actual people living in seven states and one social security card. Officers also found blank W-2 forms, blank check papers, badge makers, printers, bank ID cards, security laminates and scotch business card protectors inside the car; these materials are some of the tools used to commit fraud and identity theft. Cells phones, laptops and a USB thumb drive were also recovered.
Dennis told officers he purchased the identification documents from unknown individuals on the dark web. He would use this information to create profiles to sell to other people. Dennis admitted to using the equipment and documents found in his car to make counterfeit identification cards, drivers licenses, social security cards, W-2s, lease agreements and entire profiles for customers needing them for fraudulent uses. Secret Service agents discovered extensive conversations on Dennis’s cell phones where he was teaching unknown individuals how to use the fake profiles to request and obtain bank loans.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service (USSS) and the Ashburn Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Valdosta Man with Lengthy Criminal Past Sentenced for Illegally Possessing GunsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. –A Valdosta, Georgia, resident with a lengthy criminal history in the community was sentenced to prison this week for illegally possessing firearms as he led police on a high-speed chase in an effort to escape arrest.
Kendrick Terrell Pryor, 41, was sentenced to serve 165 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by Senior U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Feb. 1, after he previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Pryor is not eligible for parole.
“The defendant reached speeds of 120 miles per hour and drove through a residential section of Valdosta without regard for the safety of others as he attempted to outrun law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Felons who consistently demonstrate a total disregard for the law and are found in possession of deadly weapons will find their cases getting federal attention. Our office is working alongside local, state and federal law enforcement to hold repeat offenders accountable.”
“Convicted felons cannot possess guns and will face serious consequences for having them,” said Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “This sentencing ensures that Kendrick Pryor is held accountable for his crime and is removed from the community for a long time, where he will not be able to harm others.”
“We are thankful for the collaboration between our office and our federal partners to help remove dangerous repeat offenders with guns off the streets,” said Lowndes County Sheriff Ashley Paulk.
According to facts presented in court, deputies with the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office attempted to pull Pryor over for suspected impaired driving in Valdosta, Georgia, on July 3, 2022. Pryor refused to pull over and a pursuit ensued. Pryor drove his car at speeds in excess of 120 miles per hour—including through a residential section—and ran stop signs and red lights in an attempt to escape the deputy. Law enforcement was forced to perform a successful PIT (Precision Immobilization Technique) Maneuver to stop the car, and Pryor was taken into custody. Inside Pryor’s car, officers found a .22 caliber firearm on the driver’s floorboard; a 9mm handgun on the passenger’s floorboard; a 50-round drum magazine for a 9mm firearm; and a quantity of methamphetamine, oxycodone pills and cocaine. Pryor has at least six drug possession and distribution felony convictions in Lowndes County Superior Court as well as one conviction for theft by taking. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities; supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place; setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities; and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government.
US World Gang Member Who Shot at FBI Agent Sentenced to 26+ Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Columbus resident and member of a criminal street gang who fired multiple rounds at an FBI agent in the course of armed drug trafficking was sentenced to serve more than 26 years in prison for his crimes this week.
Joshuia Johnathon Luke Brown aka “Black,” 26, was sentenced to serve a total of 319 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Jan. 29, after Brown was found guilty of one count of forcible assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon, one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, three counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Sept. 18, 2023.
Co-defendant Jarvis Smith, 29, of Columbus, pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault on a federal law enforcement officer, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person on Aug. 9, 2023. Smith is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison. Smith’s sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 20. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“Joshuia Brown used a machine gun to spray a hail of bullets at law enforcement in the middle of the day in a residential neighborhood, striking an FBI agent’s car as well as a nearby private residence,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Brown will now have more than 26 years in federal prison to consider his utter disregard for human life.”
“Anyone who assaults a law enforcement officer is dangerous and an extreme threat to public safety. Stopping violent criminals, like Brown, is one of the most important things we can do to protect our communities,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "Thankfully, no one—including our Special Agent—was injured during Brown's act of terror. Columbus is a safer community with him off the streets."
“The federal system leveraged justice for both cowards involved,” said Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman. “This wild west behavior is unacceptable. I am grateful for the work and courage our FBI agents displayed. I see the fruits of their labor in our community. It's making a huge impact with gang and criminal activity.”
According to facts presented in court, federal agents were surveilling Brown and Smith in July 2022 as part of a larger and ongoing investigation into armed drug trafficking in the Columbus community. Through surveillance, agents observed a drug transaction involving Smith and Brown on July 28, 2022, in the vicinity of 1049 Winston Road in Columbus. At 4:35 p.m., Smith departed the scene in his car with Brown. FBI Agent S.A. conducted mobile surveillance as Smith traveled down Wade Street, turning south on Sheridan Avenue. Smith, who was driving, stopped his car in the middle of the road and he and Brown, who was a passenger, stepped outside of the car with weapons pointed in the agent’s direction and fired multiple rounds at the agent’s car, hitting the passenger door, the roof and the rear bumper of the FBI vehicle. One round traveled through the back of the FBI agent’s passenger seat, hitting a small bag on the front passenger side. Another round entered a private residence’s living room window, shattering a painting on the wall. The FBI agent was not injured during the shooting.
FBI and Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office units attempted to stop Smith’s car; Smith and Brown were able to elude law enforcement in a lengthy pursuit by car and on foot. Smith was taken into custody on July 28. After a manhunt that last several days, Brown turned himself in on Aug. 10. A bag dropped by Brown during the pursuit contained a fully loaded Glock 19X handgun with an extended magazine. Two bullets recovered from the FBI agent’s vehicle matched the Glock 19X found inside Brown’s discarded bag. Law enforcement recovered a camo backpack dropped by Smith during the pursuit that held a fully loaded Glock pistol with an extended magazine, a fully loaded .380 semi-automatic pistol and ammunition. Also, several baggies containing methamphetamine, pills and other illegal drugs were found inside Smith’s backpack. Both the Glock 19X and the Glock pistol were modified to operate as machine guns.
Brown is a member of US World, a hybrid criminal street gang based out of Columbus that is affiliated with other national criminal gangs. Smith is a confirmed member of the Bloods criminal street gang and has a prior conviction of aggravated assault, burglary and robbery in Muscogee County, Georgia, Superior Court, Case No. SU-13-Cr-1336. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities; supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place; setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities; and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from multiple agencies including the DEA, the Columbus Police Department, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the Phenix City Police Department and the Russell County, Alabama, Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Williams and Crawford Seals are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Zohannon Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Columbus resident and member of the Zohannon criminal street gang pleaded guilty to forcibly assaulting a federal agent as law enforcement attempted to take him into custody.
Christopher Upshaw aka “Trouble,” 25, pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon before U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Jan. 23. Upshaw faces a maximum of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Upshaw is not eligible for parole.
“Chris Upshaw violently assaulted and injured an FBI Special Agent and an FBI Task Force Officer who were simply doing their duty,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “We will not tolerate such attacks against members of law enforcement, and Upshaw will now face justice.”
“This case shows the risk law enforcement officers face on a daily basis” said FBI Atlanta’s Columbus Resident Agency Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Rich Bilson. “Upshaw violently assaulted both our Task Force Officer and a Special Agent. The FBI stands ready to investigate any crimes against officers. More than anything, we are thankful that the injuries were not more severe, and that this incident did not result in a loss of life.”
“This was another bad choice made by Christopher Upshaw while engaged in criminal wrongdoing. His intent to do harm towards law enforcement officers will be met with serious consequences,” said Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman. “I hope others will understand the penalties that come from this type of behavior.”
According to court documents and the plea agreement, authorities identified a suspicious package from Northern California that was addressed to Upshaw’s residence on Buxton Drive in Columbus; it was set for delivery on Aug. 4, 2023. Upshaw was wanted on outstanding warrants at the time. FBI, DEA, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office and Coweta County Sheriff’s Office members conducted physical surveillance at Buxton Drive on Aug. 4. The suspicious parcel was delivered at 3:30 p.m. and left on the front porch. The defendant drove up in his Dodge Charger approximately 30 minutes later to retrieve the package, which he put inside his vehicle and then entered the driver’s side.
At this time, multiple unmarked law enforcement vehicles with at least one flashing its emergency lights approached Upshaw. Law enforcement officers and federal agents—all of whom were wearing agency issued body armor equipped with law enforcement insignia—exited their vehicles and advanced towards Upshaw’s car in an attempt to arrest him. Upshaw began forcibly operating his vehicle in an effort to evade arrest. FBI Special Agent (SA) M.M. attempted to open the passenger side door. Rather than complying with law enforcement’s demands to stop, Upshaw accelerated instead. Simultaneously, as a result of the vehicle’s acceleration, FBI SA M.M. was unable to release the passenger door handle and was forcibly pulled into a nearby stationary vehicle. Upshaw also struck and damaged three occupied law enforcement vehicles. In addition, an FBI Task Force Officer (TFO) on scene was struck by Upshaw’s vehicle.
Upshaw sped away at a high rate of speed through the residential area and escaped but was captured several days later. During his flight from law enforcement, he discarded the suspicious package which was recovered by agents and contained approximately 17 pounds of marijuana divided into 14 bags. Upshaw has prior felony convictions for drug possession in Muscogee County, Georgia, Superior Court. Upshaw is a confirmed member of Zohannon, a hybrid criminal street gang based in Columbus with active conflicts among other gangs in the community. Upshaw is charged with attempted murder in Phenix City, Alabama, and is wanted for resisting arrest in Miami, Florida. These charges in Alabama and Florida are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case was investigated by FBI, DEA, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office and the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams is prosecuting the case.
NE Georgia Resident Sentenced in Prison-Directed Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Commerce, Georgia, resident convicted for his role in a larger inmate-directed armed drug conspiracy operating in the Athens, Georgia, area was sentenced to serve 19 years in prison for his crimes today.
Brendan R. Gates, 37, of Commerce, Georgia, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal to serve 228 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. This federal prison term will be served consecutively to any term of imprisonment imposed in a pending Gwinnett County, Georgia, Superior Court case. Gates was found guilty by a federal jury on Sept. 21, 2022, of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Gates’ co-defendant at trial, Cindy Stamey, 51, of Danielsville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison on Sept. 18, 2023, after she was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
“Armed criminal networks create chaos and sow destruction in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Law enforcement at every level is working together and tirelessly to dismantle these types of criminal networks in a collective effort to make our towns and cities safer.”
“Drug dealing breeds violence and traffickers who engage in this dangerous lifestyle often protect their drug stash with firearms,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division. “Consequently, these defendants will spend well-deserved time in prison. DEA and its law enforcement partners are committed to making communities safer by removing such criminals from the streets.”
The following co-defendants have been sentenced:
Adonias Sales Temaj aka “Alacran,” 28, of Norcross, Georgia, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on July 14, 2022, and was sentenced to 260 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release;
Malcody Dinges aka Cody aka “Yes, Sir Cody,” 43, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Dec. 16, 2021, and was sentenced to 240 months in prison (to run consecutive to any state-imposed sentence) to be followed by three years of supervised release;
Ervin Sales Temaj aka “Milton Aguilar,” 34, of Norcross, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on April 13, 2022, and was sentenced to 121 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release;
Carrie Kasper, 31, of Athens, pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on July 15, 2021, and was sentenced to 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release;
Christopher Wilson, 41, of Hull, Georgia, pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on April 13, 2022, and was sentenced to 55 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release;
Justin Maddox, 44, of Athens, pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on Aug. 3, 2021, and was sentenced to 30 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release; and
Katlyn Lackey, 21, of Commerce, pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on May 12, 2022, and was sentenced to 20 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release.
The defendants are not eligible for parole.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, federal agents learned in 2018 that co-defendant Dinges was conducting drug deals using contraband cell phones while in custody at the Wheeler Correctional Facility. During the course of the investigation, agents learned that Dinges was communicating with Gates and other co-defendants located in the Athens area about distributing controlled substances; these individuals would travel to locations in Atlanta as directed by Dinges to receive methamphetamine and return to Athens to distribute the drugs. Dinges received a fee for brokering the deals. When federal agents executed a search warrant at Gates’ residence, they seized a handgun and methamphetamine.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by DEA, the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, the Athens-Clarke Police Department, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office and the Madison County Sheriff Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett is prosecuting the case.
Federal Hearings in Separate Middle Georgia Fraud CasesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Several fraud cases under investigation in the Middle District of Georgia—the first involving family members who illegally wrote millions in checks to themselves from their employer’s operating account and the second involving a woman who attempted to collect more than $3.5 million in undue tax refunds by falsifying documents and making up a business—had hearings in federal court today.
Eva Rebecca Wells, 75, and Billy Lee Wells, Jr., 47, both of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud a financial institution before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Jan. 23. Both face a maximum of 30 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine. Mr. Wells also pleaded to an additional charge of making and subscribing a false return, which carries a maximum of three years in prison followed by one year of supervised release and a $100,000 fine. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court.
Lonnise Janelle Andrews, 45, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 51 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $331,758 in restitution to the IRS by U.S. District Marc T. Treadwell on Jan. 23. Andrews previously pleaded guilty to one count of making and subscribing a false return, one count of false claim for a tax credit and one count of false claim for a refund on Sept. 11, 2023. Andrews is not eligible for parole.
“These schemes are costly to all involved; our office will seek justice on behalf of those who are victims of fraud, whether it is small businesses or taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “People engaged in fraud are breaking federal law and will be held accountable for these crimes.”
“The hearings today serve as a warning to individuals who commit fraud upon others and the U.S. government that their criminal acts will come with consequences,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation special agents and our law enforcement partners will continue investigating and bringing to justice those who participate in illicit schemes to enrich themselves.”
“These fraud scams, although not violent, are not victimless and can be devastating to local business and ruin livelihoods,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “The FBI is dedicated to working with our partners to hold anyone accountable who would steal from hard working and honest individuals, rather than put in the work themselves.”
According to court documents in the Wells case, Eva Wells was the Office Manager for Mid-Georgia Sales and was responsible for its finances, including issuing weekly payroll and making other payments on behalf of the business. Her son, Billy Lee Wells, Jr., was also employed at Mid-Georgia Sales, working in IT and sales. In Dec. 2008, Eva Wells began writing unauthorized checks to herself and her son from the company’s general operating fund, as opposed to the account used for payroll. When the theft was discovered, a full accounting was conducted. Between Dec. 31, 2008, and May 10, 2019, Eva Wells wrote a total of $3,404,772.22 in unauthorized checks to Billy Lee Wells, Jr. which were either cashed or deposited in his bank account. In addition to the checks made to Billy Lee Wells, Jr., Eva Wells also wrote unauthorized checks to herself which she cashed or deposited into her bank account.
For information about the Andrews case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/macon-resident-pleads-guilty-35-million-tax-filing-scheme.
The Wells case was investigated by FBI, IRS and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The Andrews case was investigated by IRS.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Howard is prosecuting both cases for the Government.
- Drug Kingpin Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Mexican-Origin Cocaine into Georgia
South Georgian Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. –A Coffee County, Georgia, resident with a violent criminal past was sentenced to prison for illegally possessing a firearm during a car chase that ended in a police department parking lot.
Bryan Everal Pittman, 33, of Fargo, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 110 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Jan. 18, after he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on Oct. 3, 2023. Pittman is not eligible for parole.
“Convicted felons with violent criminal histories caught illegally possessing a firearm will face federal consequences for breaking the law,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “We are working closely with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to identify cases involving repeat and violent offenders to help hold them accountable for their crimes and get them off the streets.”
“Pittman, with a lengthy criminal history, once again terrorized innocent victims during his most recent crime. It is past time that he be sent to federal prison with a lengthy sentence for his actions,” said Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Albany office. “The FBI and our state and local partners will continue to remove repeat violent offenders from our streets to keep our communities safe.”
According to court documents and other evidence, Hahira Police Department police officers observed a white van and another car quickly enter the police department’s parking lot on May 26, 2022. Officers approached the white van; there were several people inside the van. One of the occupants told officers that the other vehicle was chasing them and “driving crazy” including going through stop signs; the individual also stated that someone inside the vehicle pointed a gun at them, and they drove to the police department for help. A woman in the van told officers that Pittman—who was in the other vehicle—had threatened her with a gun, and she was trying to get away from him.
Pittman and two other people were in the second vehicle that entered the police department parking lot. An officer asked them if anyone had a gun. Pittman, who was seated in the back, said he did not. The officer noticed a bulge in the shape of a small handgun in the pocket of the back of the driver’s seat, along with a methamphetamine pipe. Pittman and the other two occupants got out of the car, and officers found a .380 semi-automatic pistol with a chambered round of ammunition and five rounds in the magazine. Another round was located on the floorboard next to the rear driver’s side door. The firearm belonged to Pittman. Pittman has a lengthy violent criminal history, including past state convictions for aggravated assault, terroristic threats, battery and simple assault. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities; supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place; setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities; and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by FBI and the Hahira Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Couch prosecuted the case for the Government.
Georgian Pleads Guilty to Making Death Threats Against Public OfficialsRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Middle Georgia resident with a criminal history of arson and sending death threats pleaded guilty to mailing threatening communications in federal court today.
Travis Leroy Ball, 56, of Barnesville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of mailing threatening communications before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Jan. 19. Ball faces a maximum of five years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing will be determined by the Court. Ball is not eligible for parole.
“Death threats against public officials are taken extremely seriously by our office and will result in prison time,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Keeping people safe is the highest priority of our office and our law enforcement partners; these types of threats cannot and will not be tolerated.”
“Threats against public servants are not only illegal, but also a threat against our democratic process,” said Robert Gibbs, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “While Mr. Ball’s continued criminal conduct clearly illustrates his lack of concern and compassion for others, it also illustrates his unwillingness to be rehabilitated. Hopefully, this additional sentence will finally send the message that the FBI will not tolerate his hate fueled hoaxes and will continue to hold him accountable.”
According to court documents, the FBI obtained a letter on March 10, 2023, addressed to U.S. District Court Judge Marc T. Treadwell in which the writer was purporting to be a U.S. Secret Service agent who investigated one of the defendant’s prior cases. In the letter—later determined to be written by the Ball—the writer demanded that the charge in Ball’s most recent federal case be dismissed, and he be let out of federal custody.
Ball—using the name of a former cell mate—also wrote letters to the U.S. District Court in Valdosta, Georgia, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, D.C., in March and May 2023 respectively, threatening to kill employees and their families, as well as burn down property.
In addition, Ball wrote a letter to the Upson County Sheriff’s Office in July 2023, purporting to be an FBI agent working on a top-secret case and demanded that Ball’s photos and personal information be removed and deleted from jail records.
The FBI compared the letters, handwriting, letterhead, postage stamps, verbiage and the “INMATE MAIL” stamp on each letter and determined that Ball wrote the letters while in custody. The defendant’s DNA was compared against the letters sent to the U.S. Courthouse in Valdosta and the letter impersonating a U.S. Secret Service Agent sent to U.S. District Chief Judge Treadwell. The results confirmed Ball’s DNA on both letters. Officers found the writing material and stamps in Ball’s cell. For more information about Ball’s prior convictions for threats, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/georgia-man-sentenced-federal-prison-threats-against-president.
The case was investigated by FBI with assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Services, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Upson County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government.
South Georgia Waste Collection Site Closed, Company Sentenced for Improperly Storing Hazardous ChemicalsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A New Jersey-based hazardous waste collection and disposal corporation with locations in Valdosta, Georgia, and Lumberton, North Carolina, was sentenced in federal court for violating federal law in its handling of dangerous chemicals.
Care Environmental Corporation, through its authorized representative Francis J. McKenna, Jr., was sentenced to five years of probation, a $50,000 fine and $135,0000 restitution for remediation and cleanup by Senior U.S. District Court Judge Hugh Lawson on Jan. 17, after it previously pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly storing carbon disulfide, a hazardous material, without a permit on Aug. 14, 2023.
“Care Environmental Corporation put Valdosta residents and the South Georgia ecosystem at risk when it failed to properly dispose of hazardous waste and then compounded that failure after state and federal authorities highlighted its wrongdoings and offered a plan to correct its actions,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Working with our federal, state, and local partners, our office will hold corporations accountable for criminal actions which hurt the environment and put people at risk.”
“Improperly handling and storing hazardous waste not only violates environmental regulations but places surrounding communities at risk of an accidental release, explosion or worse,” said Special Agent in Charge Charles Carfagno of EPA-CIDs Regional Office in Atlanta, GA. “I hope this sentencing reminds all those that mishandle hazardous waste that EPA and its partners will work to hold wrongdoers accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This case demonstrates how local, state, and federal agencies work together to uphold and enforce laws designed to protect human health and the environment. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division appreciates and would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the staff who collectively held Care Environmental Corporation accountable for its actions and developed plans to remediate this facility. Such blatant violations of our environmental laws pose serious risk to the surrounding community and to the natural resources of the State of Georgia and must be redressed,” said Sara Lips, Director of Communications and Community Engagement, Georgia DNR Environmental Protection Division.
According to court documents, Care—a hazardous waste disposal corporation headquartered in Hackettstown, New Jersey—leased a warehouse in Valdosta from 2004 to 2019, where they collected and stored pesticides, poisons, chemicals and other wastes collected from homes and generators throughout the eastern United States. McKenna is the sole officer, director, owner and operator of Care.
In Dec. 2018, Care ceased receiving materials at the facility pursuant to a voluntary closure and a 12-month plan entered into with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD) that called for Care to properly dispose of all of the hazardous materials stored at the facility. In connection with that plan, CARE underwent regular inspections of the facility by GAEPD and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and made regular reports to GAEPD and EPA that reflected the amount of the stored hazardous waste that had been shipped for disposal and the amount remaining. During that time, Care continued to store the waste, including hazardous waste materials.
An inspection of the Valdosta facility in Oct. 2019 found approximately 2,100 55-gallon drums, 200 large totes, and two storage tanks containing waste substances in the warehouse. GAEPD and EPA Emergency Response Coordinator inspectors observed improperly stored hazardous materials inside the warehouse and office areas of the building that presented a threat to human health and the environment, and serious fire and explosion hazards. The integrity of a number of the drums and totes were compromised, resulting in leaking and potential spillage. Inspectors found a large jug containing carbon disulfide, a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) listed hazardous waste. The knowing storage of the carbon disulfide in the amount found at the warehouse was in violation of the provisions of RCRA. Inspectors also found quantities of various other chemicals, including red and yellow phosphorus, carbon tetrachloride, hydrogen sulfide, cyanide, mercuric cyanide and elemental mercury. The warehouse was shut down in Dec. 2019.
The condition of the warehouse resulted in remediation efforts by the EPA, which included containment and cleanup. CARE operated another warehouse facility in Lumberton, North Carolina, that also required remediation and cleanup. The cost of remediation and cleanup was $43,625.28 for Valdosta and $90,590.70 for Lumberton, North Carolina, for a total of $134,215.98.
The case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division (EPA CID) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GAEPD).
Criminal Chief Leah McEwen prosecuted the case for the Government.
South Georgia Resident Sentenced for Distributing Meth in Lanier CountyRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Clinch County, Georgia, resident found guilty of distributing nearly a kilogram of methamphetamine in Lanier County, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison today for his crime.
Dennis Thompson, 34, of Homerville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson today after he was convicted by a federal jury on July 18, 2023, of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Thompson is not eligible for parole.
“A lengthy investigation led by the Lanier County Sheriff’s Office landed a high-volume drug dealer behind bars and stopped a large amount of methamphetamine from hitting the streets,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Our office appreciates the steadfast commitment from local, state and federal authorities to uphold the law and make our communities safer for everyone.”
“Thompson endangered himself, law enforcement and other motorists during his irresponsible attempt to evade justice for methamphetamine distribution,” said Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Valdosta office. “Hopefully this case sends a clear message that drug dealing in our communities will not be tolerated by the FBI and our partners.”
“We are appreciative of the cooperative efforts from all our partners to help bring this case to a close,” said Lanier County Sheriff Charles “Nick” Norton. “It is this kind of cooperation that makes our streets a safer place.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Thompson was under surveillance for distributing methamphetamine by Lanier County Sheriff’s Office investigators in Aug. 2020. A confidential informant told investigators that Thompson would be carrying a large amount of illegal drugs into Lanier County on Aug. 30, 2020, and he would be driving on Highway 221. Deputies attempted to pull Thompson over on Highway 221, but Thompson fled, leading deputies on a high-speed chase in excess of 100 miles per hour for several miles. The pursuit continued into Atkinson County, Georgia, where the vehicle finally came to a stop. A drug dog alerted to the odor of drugs inside Thompson’s car. Officers found 976 grams of methamphetamine inside a bag in the car. Thompson acquired the methamphetamine in Atlanta to distribute in the Lanier County community.
The case was investigated by FBI and the Lanier County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonja Profit prosecuted the case for the Government.
Defendants Sentenced to Prison in Separate Project Safe Neighborhoods CasesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Three defendants with lengthy criminal histories who were found guilty by federal juries of illegally possessing firearms resulting from Project Safe Neighborhoods investigations in South Georgia were sentenced to prison today.
Demetris Gervone Bellamy, 32, of Ray City, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 260 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release after he was convicted Aug. 17, 2023, of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
Joshua Granger, 35, of Orlando, Florida, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release after he was convicted Aug. 16, 2023, of one count of illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Shi-Young Lamar Sharper, 39, of Valdosta, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release after he was convicted July 26, 2023, of one count of illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson presided over today’s sentencings which occurred at the U.S. Courthouse in Macon.
“These cases involved armed defendants with criminal histories who repeatedly violated the law, brought to federal attention as a result of the Valdosta Division’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Our office is focused on reducing crime in our communities; holding repeat and violent offenders accountable is one part of a combined community and law enforcement effort to address violent crime through Project Safe Neighborhoods.”
“These sentences are a direct result of what good multi-jurisdictional partnerships and communication can accomplish,” said Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Valdosta office. “We are grateful for all the hard work by our partners that allowed these repeat offenders to be removed from the streets before they could commit any worse crimes.”
“The federal, state and local collaboration through Project Safe Neighborhoods helps us get violent, repeat criminals off the streets. We are thankful for this continuing partnership,” said Lowndes County Sheriff Ashley Paulk.
For more information about the Bellamy case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/jury-convicts-ray-city-man-armed-meth-trafficking; for information about the Granger case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/florida-man-convicted-illegally-possessing-gun-valdosta-psn-case; and for information about the Sharper case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/jury-convicts-felon-illegally-possessing-gun.
These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities; supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place; setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities; and measuring the results.
The Bellamy and Granger cases were investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Couch and Criminal Chief Leah McEwen prosecuted the cases for the Government.
The Sharper case was investigated by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Monica Daniels and Sonja Profit prosecuted the case for the Government.
Georgia Inmate Guilty of Brokering Large Amounts of Meth SentencedRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Georgia inmate and member of the Sureños criminal gang who was brokering the distribution of at least 250 kilograms of methamphetamine along with other controlled substances like heroin and fentanyl from behind bars was sentenced to serve more than 30 years in prison for his crimes.
Pedro Barragan Valencia aka “Casper” aka “Bossman,” aka “Mexican Hitman Pete,” 46, of Calhoun, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 400 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Dec. 12. Valencia pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances on June 7. Valencia is not eligible for parole.
“Pedro Valencia directed the distribution of at least 250 kilograms of methamphetamine from behind bars to an armed drug trafficking organization pushing these highly addictive and deadly drugs in Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This dangerous drug trafficking organization was dismantled because of the collaboration of federal, state and local law enforcement dedicated to stopping criminals from harming our communities.”
“This conviction serves to put criminals on notice that if you bring illegal drugs into our communities, we will employ whatever means necessary to find you and bring you to justice no matter where you are,” said FBI Atlanta Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of the Macon Office Robert Gibbs. “This prosecution closes a significant pipeline for dangerous drugs running through the streets of Georgia. We are grateful to the many law enforcement agencies whose coordinated efforts achieved this sentence.”
“This successful investigation and prosecution is the result of many law enforcement agencies dedicated to securing our communities; we are grateful for the collaboration and hopeful it will make a difference,” said Upson County Sheriff Dan Kilgore.
According to court documents, FBI was investigating co-defendant Cornelius Leonard aka “Tae,” 29, of Grantville, Georgia, for leading an armed drug distribution organization in late 2021 and early 2022, having made four controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Leonard during that time period. The investigation led to multiple wiretaps on Leonard’s phones. Through these wiretaps, law enforcement agents learned that Leonard was conspiring with Valencia—who was an inmate at Calhoun State Prison—to acquire large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl and other illegal drugs for distribution in Thomaston and Columbus along with other Georgia cities. Valencia supplied Leonard with at least 250 kilograms of methamphetamine.
The following co-defendant is awaiting sentencing:
Cornelius Leonard aka “Tae,” 29, of Grantville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; one count of distribution of methamphetamine; and one count of conspiracy to tamper with a witness and is facing a maximum of life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for March 24, 2024.
The following co-defendants have been sentenced:
Ramone Zorn aka “Big Razor,” 53, of Thomaston, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 300 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine;
Kedric Fuller aka “Blakk Ru,” 43, of Woodbury, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances;
Horatio Venable aka “Ray Ray,” 26, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 144 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Markevious Snipes aka “Big Dawg,” 32, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 136 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Mechile Hobbs, 49, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison after she pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Darius Wellmaker, 40, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 90 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Joshua McAfee, 36, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 50 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances;
Rashard Moreland, 38, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 40 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to use of a telecommunications facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;
Antovious Hunter aka “Ant,” 41, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 37 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Dustin Robbins, 34, of Columbus, was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Sabrina Smith, 34, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison after she pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine;
Natashia Antley, 36, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison after she pleaded guilty to use of a communication facility;
Nehemiah Johnson, 30, of Thomaston, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Jennifer Moss, 39, of Molena, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Dixie Bailey, 34, of Thomaston, was sentenced to time served after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Mark Dean, 45, of Manchester, Georgia, was sentenced to time served after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Ashley Ingram, 37, of Cataula, Georgia, was sentenced to time served after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Krystal Juarez Norman, 34, of Thomaston, was sentenced to time served after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin;
S. Carlton Power, 27, of Manchester, Georgia, was sentenced to time served after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and
D. Justin Whitten, 37, of Hogansville, Georgia, was sentenced to time served after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by FBI and the Upson County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDOC).
Criminal Chief Leah McEwen is prosecuting the case for the Government.
South Georgian Pleads Guilty to Flying Drone to Drop Contraband at PrisonRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. –A Lakeland, Georgia, resident pleaded guilty to flying his unregistered drone and dropping contraband at Macon State Prison.
Dedrick Daesean Sirmans, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of operating an aircraft eligible for registration knowing that the aircraft is not registered to facilitate controlled substance offense before Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell today. Sirmans faces a maximum of five years in prison to be followed by two years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for March 7.
“Contraband in prisons is a danger to everyone inside the prison, where there is a high potential for violence and drug abuse, as well as inmates using cell phones to direct outside criminal activities,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “As the threat of drones delivering contraband continues to grow, our office—working with law enforcement—will hold all those attempting to get prohibited items to prisoners to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Using drones to distribute contraband is illegal and dangerous,” said Todd Damiani, Special Agent-In-Charge, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Southern Region. “We will continue to partner with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue those who intentionally engage in illicit activities that violate federal regulations.”
According to court documents, Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) K9 handlers were conducting a patrol of the grounds around Macon State Prison at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Sept. 14, 2020, when they encountered Sirmans exiting the woods. Sirmans claimed he was there to meet a female he found on the dating app, Tinder. GDC officers conducted a search of the area and located two plastic bags wrapped in black duct tape with fishing line attached and a black hard-shell case containing a large drone. Inside the bundles, officers found $1,000 in cash, tobacco, marijuana, three cell phones, phone charges, rolling papers, a Bluetooth device and clothing. Sirmans car was parked on the road and officers found three pistols in the trunk.
Investigators with the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG) discovered a total of 25 flight paths the drone had taken. Several of the flights took place over Macon State Prison and one flight was over Patten Probation Detention Center in Lakeland, Georgia. Investigators found that Flights 23 and 25 occurred on Sept. 14, 2020, within a couple of hours of Sirmans being found by GDC officers on the grounds around Macon State Prison. The drone was unregistered.
The case was investigated by DOT-OIG, GDC and the Macon County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Peach is prosecuting the case for the government.
Georgian Sentenced for Armed Drug Trafficking with Machine “Ghost” GunRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Columbus resident with a criminal history was sentenced to serve more than 15 years in prison for federal gun and drug offenses, including possessing a privately-made, untraceable machine gun.
Quintavius Harrow aka “Cootie,” 31, of Columbus, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 189 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Dec. 19. Harrow pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon and one count of illegal possession of a machine gun on Aug. 15. Harrow is not eligible for parole.
“Quintavius Harrow carried a self-made and untraceable machine gun—a so-called ‘ghost gun’—while distributing methamphetamine, a dangerous combination for the Columbus community,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Combating gun violence and preventing ghost guns from hitting our streets remains a top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners.”
“The FBI, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, are committed to the safety and security of our community,” said Rich Bilson, Senior Supervisory Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Columbus office. “This plea removes a dangerous career criminal from our streets and lands him in federal prison, without the opportunity for parole.”
“This violent drug trafficker can no longer distribute dangerous drugs, such as methamphetamine, as he now faces the consequences for his poor choices,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.
"Quintavius Harrow's possession of a privately-made, untraceable machine gun underscores the urgent need to address the rapid reproduction of such dangerous weapons,” said Columbus Police Chief Stoney Mathis. “This case exemplifies our commitment to public safety and collaborative efforts to combat violent crime. We remain dedicated to our partnership with federal and local agencies and community programs in reducing these threats."
“We will continue to work in collaboration with all law enforcement partners to remove these types of threats from our community for a safer Columbus,” said Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman.
According to court documents, FBI and DEA conducted a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Harrow using a confidential source (CS) on March 18, 2022. During the transaction, Harrow was filmed in possession of an AR-15 styled pistol and sold the CS two bags containing a total of 498 grams of methamphetamine. On April 26, 2022, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Drug and Gang Task force agents executed a search warrant at a trap house located at 813 Coolidge Avenue in Columbus, where Harrow was observed selling methamphetamine to the CS the month prior. Harrow was in the home along with other individuals. Law enforcement found a variety of illegal drugs and several firearms throughout the house. Notably, in a back bedroom, officers located the same AR-15 style pistol Harrow carried on March 18. With no known manufacturer or visible serial number, the AR-15 style pistol had a large capacity magazine and 30 rounds of ammunition. FBI examined the AR-15 style pistol and determined it was a “ghost gun” equipped with an auto sear, which converted the firearm to a machine gun. Ghost guns are untraceable firearms assembled by private individuals from firearm components.
Prior to these incidents, on March 6, 2020, Columbus Police Department (CPD) Special Operation’s unit officers were surveilling the area of Elizabeth Canty Apartments. Officers observed several people standing near a vehicle, including Harrow. Upon approach by officers, Harrow began walking away and then discarded a yellow container containing methamphetamine and a stolen HK 9mm, semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine. Harrow was taken into custody with a digital scale with marijuana residue and $436 cash in his pocket.
Harrow has a criminal history for robbery by intimidation in Muscogee Co., Georgia, Superior Court and use of a gun with an altered identification mark in Chattahoochee County, Georgia, Superior Court. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by FBI, DEA, the Muscogee Co. Sheriff’s Office and the Columbus Police Department, with assistance from GBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams prosecuted the case for the Government.
New Yorker Guilty of Defrauding 50+ Investors in Pre-IPO Scam SentencedRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. – The CEO of a New York-based venture capital firm who conspired to defraud more than 50 investors of millions of dollars in a pre-IPO scam was sentenced to prison today for his crime.
George Iakovou, 30, of New York, New York, was sentenced to serve 97 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Clay Land today. Iakovou pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud on Aug. 8. Iakovou is not eligible for parole.
“George Iakovou’s financial scheme and lies harmed people, causing irreparable damage to his victims,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Law enforcement at every level in the Middle District of Georgia will continue to do everything in our power to hold con artists accountable for their crimes.”
“George Iakovou’s greed will have an everlasting effect on the victims he defrauded,” said Resident Agent in Charge Clint Bush of the U.S. Secret Service’s Albany, Georgia, Resident Office. “The United States Secret Service will continue to investigate, arrest and support the successful prosecution of the criminals who choose to commit this and other types of financial fraud in our community and around the nation.”
According to court documents, in July 2021, the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) began investigating a pre-IPO (initial public offering) scheme orchestrated by Iakovou, the CEO of Vika Ventures LLC, a boutique venture capital firm headquartered in New York which purported to specialize in pre-IPO investments in various early and late-stage private companies.
Iakovou advertised that Vika had access to buy pre-IPO shares in private companies such as Palantir, Airbnb, SpaceX and Stripe. He claimed that once these private companies went public and the mandatory six-month lockout period expired, Vika would distribute the purchased shares to the investors. In fact, Iakovou had neither access to pre-IPO shares in the advertised companies nor owned the shares at the time of the solicitations. While Iakovou did take the victim-investors’ money, he did not purchase or acquire any of the promised shares. Iakovou established fake email domains, posed as representatives from private equity brokerage firms and created fake bank statements among other tricks to carry out his fraud scheme.
USSS identified more than 50 victim-investors from across the country who provided capital to Vika between Jan. 2020 and Dec. 2021, including two victims in the Middle District of Georgia. A review of bank records for Vika’s investor account showed that identified victim-investors paid Vika approximately $5,958,505 for the purchase of pre-IPO shares of select private companies, but none received their promised shares. Iakovou rerouted the money to several accounts, including personal bank accounts, and used the money for private jet charters, cars, home furnishings, artwork, luxury clothing and accessories. For example, Iakovou spent $135,528 on a 2021 Corvette Stingray and more than $500,000 on luxury watches, including $231,799 on a single Patek Philippe timepiece.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams prosecuted the case.
Southwest Georgian Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Colquitt County, Georgia, resident with a lengthy criminal history in the community and associated with the Ghostface Gangsters was sentenced to prison for illegally possessing a firearm when he was taken into custody while wanted on an outstanding warrant.
Marion C. Wells, 48, of Norman Park, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 85 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge W Louis Sands on Dec.14. Wells previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on Sept. 19. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“Repeat felony offenders who continually disregard the law and are caught with guns will face federal prosecution,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This case was brought to our attention by the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office and their local Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force, a collaboration of law enforcement and community members working to find effective, evidence-based solutions to reduce crime.”
“Marion Wells has left a long trail of pain and destruction throughout his time in Georgia,” said Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Rich Bilson of FBI Atlanta’s Albany office. “This case shows when we work together and share information, good results occur. Every resource and every force multiplier we possess, will be used to accomplish that goal.”
“Marion Wells is a repeat offender and well-known methamphetamine distributor in our community going back at least twenty years; he is also a documented member of the criminal Ghostface Gangsters,” said FBI Task Force Officer (TFO) and Captain of Field Operations for the Moultrie Police Department Steve Exum. “Colquitt County is safer with Wells off the streets; we are thankful for our strong partnership with federal and state law enforcement working with us to make our community safer.”
According to court documents, Wells was wanted on an outstanding warrant for a parole violation Feb. 4, 2021, when Colquitt County deputies received a tip about his whereabouts and that he was in possession of a rifle. That day, deputies observed Wells driving in Moultrie, Georgia, and conducted a traffic stop. In plain view in the back seat was a rifle with a night scope loaded with 21 rounds of ammunition. There was also 20 grams of methamphetamine under the driver’s side back seat, along with a box of plastic Ziploc bags, two glass smoking devices and lighter, sixteen 9mm rounds and $3,390 cash. Wells has a lengthy criminal history in Colquitt County and the Southwest Georgia region spanning nearly three decades, including multiple felony drug charges, criminal attempt to commit a felony, eluding police officers and battery-family violence.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the FBI Gang Task Force and the Moultrie-Colquitt County Drug Enforcement Team.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica L. Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government.
Two Plead Guilty, One Sentenced in Separate Fentanyl CasesRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Two co-defendants pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and one defendant was sentenced to prison today resulting from separate investigations into the distribution of large amounts of fentanyl in the Athens and Milledgeville communities.
James Hill, 41, of Athens, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to a maximum sentence of life in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release and a maximum $10,000,000 fine. Co-defendant Jasmine Jackson, 29, of Athens, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $1,000,000 fine. Both defendants entered their guilty pleas before U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III on Dec. 14 in Case No. 3:22-CR-25. Sentencing is scheduled for March 21, 2024, at the U.S. Courthouse in Athens.
Brandon Ector aka “Big,” 39, of Atlanta was sentenced to serve 150 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Dec. 14 after he previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in Case No. 5:22-CR-40. Ector is not eligible for parole.
“Stopping armed fentanyl trafficking and holding those associated with its distribution accountable is a top priority for our office and our law enforcement partners across the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Thanks to the efforts of many law enforcement agencies in both investigations, nearly four kilograms of fentanyl was prevented from circulating in the Athens and Milledgeville communities. Law enforcement is facing unprecedented challenges, and I am grateful for their dedication to protecting our citizens.”
“The success of these investigations demonstrates DEA will use all of its resources to destroy drug distribution networks that are endangering our communities,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.
According to court documents in the Hill and Jackson case, a confidential informant working with the Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force provided information that Hill was mixing fentanyl into heroin and selling it inside his Athens apartment located on Chateau Terrace that he shared with his girlfriend, co-defendant Jackson. A search warrant was executed at the apartment on Nov. 11, 2021, and agents found two plastic bags later confirmed to contain heroin and fentanyl in one and fentanyl in the other. In a kitchen cabinet, investigators located a small laboratory with mixing containers, measuring utensils, Acetone and a mixer, which they suspected Hill was using to mix the narcotics he was distributing. Investigators located additional, but smaller, quantities of drugs in Hill’s automobiles. Another search warrant was executed on the same day at the Sleep Inn and Suites in Athens, where Hill was using rooms to store and distribute narcotics. Agents seized 1.3 kilograms of fentanyl, two pistols, $33,525 cash, approximately 70 grams of heroin and 27.8 grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents in the Ector case, law enforcement agents with the DEA Macon Resident Office, GBI and Ocmulgee Drug Task Force received credible information from multiple confidential sources regarding illegal drug activities occurring in the Milledgeville area in July 2020. Co-defendant Damon Hayes aka “D-5” was identified as a multi-kilogram distributor of methamphetamine, powder cocaine and crack cocaine operating in Milledgeville. Ector was a member of Hayes’ drug trafficking organization. Through surveillance, agents observed Hayes acquire bulk quantities of narcotics from co-defendant Lagary Williams aka “Frog” at his luxury high-rise apartment in downtown Atlanta, where Ector resided. On Sept. 10, 2021, a federal search warrant was executed at Williams’ Atlanta apartment. Both Williams and Ector attempted to flee law enforcement by jumping from the apartment’s balcony. Ector broke a bone from the jump. Agents recovered 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl in the apartment, as well as one kilogram of methamphetamine, two kilograms of cocaine, approximately 50 grams of cocaine base, approximately seven pounds of marijuana, a Glock 19 9mm pistol and a Ruger model 57 handgun. For more information about this Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation and the other co-defendants in this case, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/atlanta-based-fentanyl-meth-supplier-central-georgia-pleads-guilty.
The Hill and Jackson case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is prosecuting the case for the Government.
The Ector case was investigated by DEA, GBI, the Ocmulgee Drug Task Force, the Baldwin County Sherriff’s Office, the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s Office, the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, the Atlanta-Carolina’s HIDTA Office and the Gwinnett Metro Task Force. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes prosecuted the case for the Government. Former Middle District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Kalim previously prosecuted the case.
Southwest Georgia Men Sentenced in Gang-Related Drug Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – Two members of the Gangster Disciples street gang who are career offenders were sentenced to prison resulting from a GBI-led investigation into armed drug trafficking.
Jason Patterson, 44, of Americus, Georgia, and Quintavious Miller, 28, of Ellaville, Georgia, were sentenced as career offenders by U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Dec. 12. Patterson was sentenced to 96 months in prison and Miller was sentenced to 60 months in prison, both terms of imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. Both defendants pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine on Aug. 2. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“Gang-related armed drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Americus, Ellaville or any place in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Cases like this one illustrate the strong collaboration between law enforcement to bring those causing the most criminal disruption to justice and work ceaselessly for safer communities for all.”
“Drug and gang-related crimes cause severe damage to Georgia communities. This case exemplifies the hard work of the GBI’s Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office and our local and federal law enforcement partners,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
“The successful result of this investigation should let career gang members know that DEA will use all of its resources to destroy their violent drug distribution networks,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.
“ATF and our partners are committed to pursuing and prosecuting the most troublesome criminal offenders to protect the communities we serve,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.
“This case is a great example of what can be accomplished when local, state and federal agencies work together to address crime in our community,” said Americus Police Department Chief Mark Scott.
According to court documents, during an investigation into gang-related drug trafficking and other criminal activities in the Americus region, GBI investigators, working alongside DEA, purchased quantities of cocaine powder and crack cocaine from the defendants using a confidential informant and an undercover agent beginning in May 2021 through August 2021. Both defendants are members of the Gangster Disciples. On Aug. 11, 2021, GBI executed search warrants at four locations belonging to the defendants in Americus (Sumter County, Georgia) and Ellaville (Schley County, Georgia). At Patterson’s residence at 210 Tom Hall Circle in Americus, agents found more than $30,000 cash on Patterson and under his bed; a firearm reported stolen from Lee County, Georgia; marijuana; a digital scale and packaging materials commonly used to illegally distribute drugs; and multiple cell phones that both Patterson and Miller used to communicate. At Miller’s apartment and trailer located in Ellaville, agents found quantities of cocaine base; marijuana; cash; and a Gangster Disciple flyer. Patterson has multiple prior felony convictions in Sumter County, Georgia, Superior Court and Miller has at least two prior felony convictions in Schley County, Georgia, Superior Court.
The case was investigated by GBI, DEA, ATF, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and Americus Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case for the Government.
U.S. Attorney Leary Joins Local, State and Federal Law Enforcement Leaders to Announce Project Safe Neighborhoods Efforts in 2023Read the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – The U.S Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia joined with local, state and federal law enforcement leaders at the Historic Lowndes County Courthouse this afternoon to discuss Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) cases targeting convicted felons caught reoffending while armed and crime prevention efforts.
There are currently 129 active cases involving firearms and violent crime offenses in the Middle District of Georgia. This calendar year to date, 29 PSN cases have been indicted in the Valdosta Division, which encompasses Berrien, Brooks, Clinch, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Lanier, Lowndes, Thomas and Tift counties. These law enforcement actions have removed firearms from the streets—including machine guns and firearm conversion devices known as “switches” that can turn handguns and semi-automatic weapons into a machine gun, allowing it to fire without repeatedly pulling the trigger.
“Reducing violent crime in Valdosta and across the District is the top goal of every law enforcement agency and community stakeholder involved with Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “These cases involve repeat reoffenders who are illegally armed. It’s a dangerous task our law enforcement partners take up every day, and we are thankful to them for their unyielding commitment to making our communities safer.”
“The FBI is actively working with our law enforcement partners to get violent repeat offenders off the streets,” said FBI Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Rich Bilson. “To the repeat convicted felons, drug dealers and others out there hurting our neighbors: Be warned, we are a team, we are prepared for this fight, and you will lose your battle to run our streets, spreading your violence and deadly drugs in our community.”
“Law enforcement at every level is united in the singular goal to make our communities safer and reduce violent crime,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “Under Project Safe Neighborhoods, ATF stands together with all of our partner agencies and the communities we serve with a laser-sharp focus on the most urgent violent crime problems.”
“The GBI is proud to continue to work with our local and federal partners to keep our communities safe and seek justice for these crime victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamy Steinberg of GBI Region 9 – Thomasville Field Office. “We have enjoyed long standing relationships with the FBI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the Valdosta Police Department and our other law enforcement partners across the District. We expect these long-established relationships to last well into the future to continue to combat crime in the South Georgia area.”
“Project Safe Neighborhoods has allowed our office to make progress in adjudicating cases charging convicted felons with illegal possession of firearms,” said Southern Judicial Circuit District Attorney Brad Shealy. “This year, 31 defendants from the Southern Judicial Circuit have been sentenced federally under PSN, receiving lengthy sentences without parole. Every month, the Valdosta PSN Task Force looks at approximately 20 cases to bring to PSN. Together, we can bring to justice our most violent, repeat offenders.”
“We are thankful for the relationships we maintain with federal, state and local law enforcement under Project Safe Neighborhoods to help get violent, repeat criminals off the streets,” said Lowndes County Sheriff Ashley Paulk. “It has been a fantastic collaboration in Lowndes County.”
“We are grateful for the partnership that we have with the U.S Attorney’s Office and the FBI with Project Safe Neighborhoods,” said Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan. “Because of the efforts of everyone working together, numerous firearms and dangerous convicted felons have been removed from our community. “
Violent crime prevention efforts are a critical component of Project Safe Neighborhoods. PSN community outreach efforts this calendar year include regular PSN Task Force meetings in Valdosta and cities across the District; grant support and implementation of the Credible Messengers program in the Middle District of Georgia which provides mentors for young people in the Georgia Juvenile Justice system; educational training for law enforcement and community members on relevant safety and policing topics, including upcoming PSN Firearms and Narcotics trainings for law enforcement in Valdosta, Albany, Columbus, Warner Robins and Athens; and participation in Night to Unite and similar community building activities across the District. For more information on PSN, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. This evidence-based program has proven to be effective at reducing violent crime by engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders working together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in communities and developing comprehensive solutions that reduce crime. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses on prevention and intervention efforts through community engagement and problem-solving partnerships, strategic enforcement of the most violent offenders and locally based reentry programs to reduce recidivism.
Federal Prisoner Charged with Escape Pleads Not Guilty at ArraignmentRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A recently convicted felon charged with escaping the Bibb County Jail on Oct. 16 pleaded not guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle today during a brief arraignment at the U.S. Courthouse in Macon.
Johnifer Dernard Barnwell aka “Whoop” aka “Malixe,” 37, of Macon, is charged by indictment with one count of escape from custody. Co-defendant Janecia Green, 30, of Macon, is charged by indictment with one count of aiding and abetting Barnwell’s escape from custody and one count of assisting escape of a person committed to custody. Each charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Barnwell remains in federal custody as ordered by the Court.
According to the indictment, Barnwell was being held in the Bibb County Jail on behalf of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) after he was convicted by a federal jury on Oct. 2 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and cocaine base for which Barnwell faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine. A sentencing date has not been scheduled by the Court. In the indictment, Barnwell is alleged to have escaped the custody of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of Green.
Green had her initial appearance in Macon on Nov. 15 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle of the U.S. Court for the Middle District of Georgia. On Nov. 21, Green had a detention hearing where she was ordered to remain in federal custody pending trial.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Central Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Central Georgia resident pleaded guilty to illegally possessing an assault weapon he used during a 2022 shoot-out in Twiggs County, Georgia.
Jayvon Latrez Anthony, 30, of Jeffersonville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count of illegal possession of a firearm by a person under felony indictment before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Nov. 28. Anthony faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing will occur at a date determined by the Court. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“It’s fortunate no one was killed during this highly volatile shoot-out where the defendant was armed with an assault-style weapon, firing off at least 17 rounds,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Through Project Safe Neighborhoods and our strong partnership with law enforcement at every level, violent convicted criminals caught illegally with assault weapons and other firearms will see their local cases get federal attention here in the Middle District of Georgia.”
“As a result of this guilty plea, Mr. Anthony will be off the streets and unable to possess or use firearms,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “ATF takes it very seriously when offenders illegally possess firearms, putting our community at risk.”
“I’m pleased to know that another violent offender is off the streets and is no longer a threat to our community,” said Twiggs County Sheriff Darren Mitchum. “I commend my deputies and investigators for the thorough job they did with this investigation. It was only by the grace of God that no lives were lost due to such a careless act.”
According to court documents, Anthony was armed with an AK-47 style pistol when he exchanged gunfire with Tre’Vonte Tharpe on July 22, 2022, on Shine Road in Jeffersonville (Twiggs County). Both Anthony and his mother were struck by bullets in the shoot-out; Anthony was treated and released by a hospital for his injuries. Officers recovered 17 spent rounds from Anthony’s assault pistol and one 9mm round fired by Tharpe. Officers executed a search warrant at the Shine Road residence and found the AK-47 style pistol and firearm magazine under the kitchen sink belonging to Anthony. The firearm was covered in blood and still had a loaded magazine in it with a live round in the chamber. Anthony has a criminal record, including a prior felony conviction for aggravated assault in Bibb County, Georgia, Superior Court.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by ATF and the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case for the Government.
Federal Prisoner Charged with Escape Returned to Middle District of GeorgiaRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A recently convicted felon facing a federal charge alleging his participation in a Bibb County, Georgia, jailbreak on Oct. 16 had his initial appearance today at the U.S. Courthouse in Macon.
Johnifer Dernard Barnwell aka “Whoop” aka “Malixe,” 37, of Macon, had his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle for the Middle District of Georgia; Barnwell had a prior initial appearance in the Southern District of Georgia on Nov. 13 after he was taken into custody in Augusta, Georgia, on Nov 12. Today, Barnwell was ordered to continue to be held in federal custody without bond. Barnwell’s arraignment is expected to occur later this week.
Barnwell is charged by indictment with one count of escape from custody. Co-defendant Janecia Green, 30, of Macon, is charged by indictment with one count of aiding and abetting Barnwell’s escape from custody and one count of assisting escape of a person committed to custody. Each charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
According to the indictment, Barnwell was being held in the Bibb County Jail on behalf of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) after he was convicted by a federal jury on Oct. 2 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and cocaine base for which Barnwell faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine. A sentencing date has not been scheduled by the Court. In the indictment, Barnwell is alleged to have escaped the custody of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of Green.
Green had her initial appearance in Macon on Nov. 15 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle of the U.S. Court for the Middle District of Georgia. On Nov. 21, Green had a detention hearing where she was ordered to remain in federal custody pending trial.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes represented the Government at today’s initial appearance.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Federal Convicted Felon and Alleged Accomplice Charged for Jail EscapeRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A recently convicted felon and a Central Georgia woman are facing federal charges alleging their participation in a Bibb County, Georgia, jailbreak on Oct. 16.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on Nov. 14 charging Johnifer Dernard Barnwell aka “Whoop” aka “Malixe,” 37, of Macon, with one count of escape from custody and Janecia Green, 30, of Macon, with one count of aiding and abetting Barnwell’s escape from custody and one count of assisting escape of a person committed to custody. Each charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
According to the indictment, Barnwell was being held in the Bibb County Jail on behalf of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) after he was convicted by a federal jury on Oct. 2 of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin; and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and cocaine base for which Barnwell faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine. A sentencing date has not been scheduled by the Court. In the indictment, Barnwell is alleged to have escaped the custody of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of Green.
Green had her initial appearance in Macon on Nov. 15 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Weigle of the U.S. Court for the Middle District of Georgia. She was held without bond and is scheduled to have a detention hearing on Nov. 21 to determine future bond status.
Barnwell had his initial appearance in Augusta, Georgia, on Nov. 13 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brian Epps of the U.S. Court for the Southern District of Georgia and was remanded to the custody of the USMS. The USMS will transport Barnwell back to the Middle District of Georgia for further court proceedings.
The case is being investigated by the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case.
Jury Convicts Felon with Violent Criminal Past for Illegally Possessing GunRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A federal jury convicted a Valdosta, Georgia, resident with a lengthy and violent criminal history of illegally possessing a firearm after officers discovered an AK-47 style firearm during a domestic violence investigation triggered by a child attempting to protect his mother.
Angelo Devon Williams, 35, was found guilty of one count of illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on Nov. 14. The trial began on Nov. 13 before U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson at the federal courthouse in Macon. Williams faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for March 20, 2024, in Valdosta, Georgia. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“Angelo Williams not only has a violent criminal history, but he was illegally armed when a child bravely attempted to protect his mother,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “We have zero tolerance for violent convicted felons who illegally possess firearms. Working with our law enforcement partners at every level, our office will continue to pursue these worthy prosecutions.”
“The abhorrent behavior conducted by Williams, especially in the presence of a child, is shocking,” said Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Valdosta office. “This conviction sends the message that the FBI and our partners are devoted to removing violent criminals from our neighborhoods to make them safer for law abiding citizens.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Lowndes County, Georgia, 911 received a call from a child the night of July 26, 2020, who told the operator something related to his mother “was being hit.” The 911 operator called back and spoke to the next-door neighbor of the location where the domestic dispute was occurring; Valdosta Police Department patrol officers were dispatched to the scene. Officers found a woman standing outside of the residence who said that Williams allegedly assaulted her and had left the scene shortly before the officers arrived. The victim had significant scrapes, scratches, cuts and bruises on her body and face and a large knot in the center of her forehead.
The victim told officers that Williams had allegedly taken the keys of the victim’s rental car and refused to give them back when she and her child asked. Williams allegedly pushed the child and began punching the victim. The altercation continued when the child ran to the next-door neighbor’s house and called 911.
The rental car was full of Williams’ belongings, including his AK-47 style semi-automatic rifle. Williams has prior state felony convictions for robbery/carjacking in Miami-Dade County, Florida, and felony fleeing/attempting to elude in Hamilton County, Florida. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by FBI and the Valdosta Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sonja Profit and Monica Daniels are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Southwest Georgia Man Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Southwest Georgia resident with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison for illegally possessing a firearm.
Tomario Ricardo Hicks, 42, of Albany, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner on Nov. 9. Hicks previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on Jan. 26. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“Repeat offenders who continuously disregard the community’s safety and are caught illegally possessing guns will face federal consequences for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Working with our law enforcement partners from every level, we will focus our collective resources to reduce crime and make our neighborhoods as safe as possible.”
“One of ATF’s top priorities is to deny criminals access to firearms and protect the rights of law-abiding citizens. The offender illegally had a firearm that subsequently could have been used against our citizens and our communities; ATF takes this very seriously,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.
According to court documents, Hicks was pulled over for speeding in Albany on Jan. 28, 2022. Hicks threw a quantity of methamphetamine out of his car during the traffic stop and admitted he was carrying a firearm, even though he was a prohibited person. The .380 caliber pistol was located on the driver side floorboard, along with a digital scale in the center console and a box of baggies in the backseat. Hicks has a lengthy criminal history, to include many prior felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances in Dougherty County, Georgia, Superior Court.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) and the Albany Dougherty Drug Unit (ADDU). Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case for the government.
Central Georgian Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A Central Georgia resident was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison after he admitted to possessing hundreds of images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), also known as child pornography, including those involving the graphic abuse of very young children.
David Health, 38, of Macon and Gray, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison to be followed by 20 years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Nov. 8, after he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography on Feb. 1. Heath will have to register as a sex offender for life upon release from prison. Heath is not eligible for parole.
“David Heath and other predators who actively seek out gratification from the horrifying sexual abuse of children are a danger to kids,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “The Middle District of Georgia is blessed with law enforcement relentlessly dedicated to protecting the innocent and bringing child predators to justice.”
“The GBI’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit will continue to work tirelessly to protect innocent victims of online exploitation. We are grateful for the partnerships we maintain with our local and federal agencies to bring these predators to justice,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
According to court documents, GBI received a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) on Jan. 17, 2020, that contained approximately 300 images of CSAM. The images, including some depicting the sexual abuse of pre-pubescent minor children, was uploaded to a Google account used by Heath. Another Cybertip containing 75 CSAM files depicting minor prepubescent children engaged in sexual acts was submitted on Feb. 13, 2020, from the same account. In addition, 43 more Cybertips like the aforementioned instances were discovered to have come from the same user.
GBI executed a search warrant at Heath’s Macon residence on March 27, 2020, and several electronic devices were seized, including laptops, cell phones, HD cards, USB sticks and external hard drives. In all, Heath possessed 2081 images of children being sexually assaulted and abused, including 116 images depicting an infant or toddler being sexually abused and one image of sado-masochistic conduct involving a child. Heath has a prior state felony conviction for aggravated assault of a peace officer in Bibb County, Georgia, Superior Court; his parole was revoked in 2020 for the offenses of possession of methamphetamine and five counts of violation computer pornography and child exploitation.
The case was investigated by the GBI.
Criminal Chief Leah McEwen prosecuted the case.
Walton County Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A Walton County, Georgia, resident was sentenced to serve 15 years in prison after he was convicted by a federal jury in February of possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) resulting from a GBI-led undercover investigation of an online peer-to-peer sharing network.
Johnathan Remsen, 38, of Loganville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison to be followed by 25 years of supervised release by U.S. District C. Ashley Royal today after he was found guilty of possession of child pornography on Feb. 1. Remsen will have to register as a sex offender for life upon release from prison. Remsen is not eligible for parole.
“Our office will not hesitate to use the federal resources at our disposal to hold individuals accountable for downloading, sharing, creating or contributing to the sexual abuse and exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Every time a person views child sexual abuse material, they become complicit in the appalling abuse of a child. Working with our dedicated law enforcement and community partners, we will do everything in our power to protect the innocent and bring child predators to justice.”
“The victimization of a child doesn’t end when that child’s pornographic images are recorded. Every time an individual like Remsen possesses those images and views them for personal gratification, that child is victimized again and again,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI will always make it a priority to protect our most vulnerable assets, our children.”
“Federal prosecution sends a clear message that downloading and viewing child sexual abuse material is a serious crime. The GBI’s Child Exploitation and Computer Crimes Unit investigates numerous cases just like this one and will not slow down until these perpetrators are held accountable. We’ll continue to work with strong federal partners, like the United States Attorney’s Office, to seek justice for these vulnerable victims,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, GBI conducted an undercover investigation on the peer-to-peer sharing network BitTorrent in July 2017. An undercover agent received 29 videos containing CSAM from an IP address traced back to a Walton County residence where Remsen resided. Law enforcement searched the residence in Jan. 2018, recovering a computer tower belonging to Remsen that contained 2,357 picture files and 196 video files of suspected CSAM (also known as child pornography). Remsen was interviewed by law enforcement and made statements indicating that he “accidentally” downloaded CSAM, and then later stated that it was not an accident. He further admitted that he looked at CSAM, but he never meant to download or keep it. The explicit photos and videos contained child sexual abuse material of children 12 years old and younger.
The case was investigated by the GBI and the FBI.
Criminal Chief Leah McEwen prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Kalim previously assisted with the prosecution.
Southern Pine Credit Union President and Controller Plead Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
VALDOSTA, Ga. – The former President and the former Controller of Southern Pine Credit Union in Valdosta both pleaded guilty to long-running multimillion-dollar bank loan and aggravated identity theft schemes.
Teresa Paulo, of Valdosta, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft today. Co-defendant Leah Lehman, 63, of Valdosta, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft on Oct. 26. Both women face a maximum of 30 years in prison for bank fraud, and a mandatory two years in prison in addition to any other prison term imposed for aggravated identity theft, to be followed by a maximum of five years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine.
U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands is presiding over this case. Lehman’s sentencing date is scheduled for Feb. 28, 2024. Paulo’s sentencing date will be determined by the Court. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“As leaders of this credit union, the defendants knowingly put their members—local paper mill employees and their families—at great risk with their complex schemes to enrich themselves,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “I want to thank the FBI and FDIC investigators for unraveling their carefully engineered criminal fraud and helping us hold them accountable.”
“These guilty pleas are the direct result of a diligent investigation by hardworking FBI employees and our partners at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation,” said Rich Bilson, Senior Supervisory Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Valdosta office. “Paulo and Lehman’s greed driven scheme stole hundreds of thousands of dollars and damaged the financial security of innocent victims. They will now be held accountable for their blatant misuse of the power of their positions.”
According to court documents, Lehman served as President of Southern Pine Credit Union (SPCU) in Valdosta from 1990 to 2020. Paolo was SPCU’s controller from Oct. 2011 to June 2020. The Credit Union’s members are employees of the local paper mill and their families. Lehman and Paolo were both authorized to originate all types of loans, were responsible for filing quarterly reports to the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and had access to all SPCU employees’ usernames and passwords for all SPCU computers and software.
Lehman began her fraud in June 2003, when she created a share secured loan in a SPCU account using the name and social security number of a member without that individual’s knowledge. From Feb. 2012 to May 31, 2020, Lehman paid off the loan and rebooked it multiple times with additional advances. She would take the proceeds and put them in a joint share draft account she had with the individual, using the proceeds to pay for a boat, a hunting club share, personal expenses and gifts to family members. This loan was repaid in full. However, Lehman created another share secured loan in another individual’s name without their knowledge and would also pay off the loan and rebook it multiple times for personal spending. To conceal these activities, Lehman created false credit transactions using the names and passwords of SPCU employees. These transactions would advance the due date on the loans, which prevented these loans from appearing on quarterly call reports to the NCUA and allowed Lehman to defer or not make payment on these loans. Following these transactions, Lehman created debit entries to put the loans back on the accounts, which would often include interest accrued on the outstanding loans. She made additional fraudulent loan advances simultaneously with those entries to advance the loan dates. She reflected the loans as being paid off at the end of the quarter to prevent possible detection of artificial growth in the SPCU loan portfolio. In total, the drafts needed to pay off the loan balances at each quarter grew to $4,112,870.63, excluding payments and interest, as of May 31, 2020.
Paulo committed a similar fraud scheme to Lehman. In Oct. 2011, Paulo created a share secured loan in a SPCU account using the name and social security number of a member without that individual’s knowledge. From Nov. 2011 until May 29, 2020, Paulo took out additional advances on the loan as well as additional loans from the account. Paulo would transfer the loan proceeds into a joint account for personal spending purposes. She created another share secured account using the personal identity of another individual and would pay off the loan and rebook it multiple times with additional advances, using the proceeds for her own personal expenses or electronically transfer money into her family’s accounts. Paulo concealed her schemes as Lehman concealed hers: creating false credit transactions using the usernames and passwords of SPCU employees to simulate the payoff of the loans, which would advance the due date on the loans. Paulo also created debit entries using other people’s usernames and passwords to put the loans back on the accounts, which would often include interest accrued on the outstanding loans. The drafts needed to pay off the loan balances at each quarter grew to $1,233,201.77, excluding payments and interest, as of May 31, 2020. Paulo made $7,736.16 in legitimate payments to the loan balances.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Couch is prosecuting this case for the Government.
Three Central Georgians Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – Three Central Georgia residents with lengthy criminal histories were sentenced this week to federal crimes in three separate Project Safe Neighborhoods cases targeting convicted felons with guns.
Raikwon Christian, 27, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Oct. 31; Trayon Brown, 35, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 71 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Oct. 31; and Gabriel Brown, 43, of Warner Robins, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 70 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Oct. 30 by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell. The defendants each previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“Convicted felons caught with firearms—especially assault weapons and large capacity magazines—pose a danger in our communities and will face federal prosecution for illegally possessing them,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “These Project Safe Neighborhoods cases are all the result of strong collaboration between many local, state and federal law enforcement partners working to reduce gun violence and make our communities safer.”
“ATF’s mission is to deny criminals access to firearms and protect the rights of law-abiding citizens. When offenders illegally possess firearms that can be used against our citizens, our children and our community, ATF takes this very seriously,” said the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.
According to court documents in the Christian case, Christian reported to the Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) Office in Macon on Dec. 13, 2021, and was arrested on an active probation warrant. Before entering the building, Christian placed a bag behind a trashcan outside the building. The bag held a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, along with a cell phone and Christian’s identification. Agents also found recent posts of Christian on Facebook holding AR-15 and AK-47 style rifles with extended magazines. A search warrant was executed at 1367 Sanford Avenue in Macon on Dec. 14, where the photos were taken. Five firearms were located inside the residence, including a revolver with an obliterated serial number, a stolen and loaded semi-automatic pistol and a semi-automatic pistol equipped with a large capacity magazine. In addition, agents found illegal drugs—most already packaged for distribution—plus digital scales, cells phones and plastic baggies. A review of the property’s own security footage showed numerous suspected drug transactions. Agents later found the AK-47 rifle Christian held in social media posts hidden in a vent. The firearm was loaded and equipped with a magazine containing 27 rounds of ammunition.
According to court documents in the Trayon Brown case, a Bibb County Sheriff’s Office deputy attempted to stop a vehicle on Napier Avenue in Macon for a traffic violation on June 8, 2022. Brown was driving; instead of pulling over, Brown turned onto a side street and jumped out of the vehicle while it was still moving and it collided with a sign. Brown ran away with the deputy in pursuit; the officer was injured jumping a chain-linked fence chasing after the defendant. The deputy found Brown hiding in some bushes near a private residence with a semi-automatic pistol next to him. Brown’s car contained methamphetamine, marijuana, digital scales, several additional small bags and a bag of ammunition. Brown has two prior robbery by force convictions in Bibb County, Georgia, Superior Court.
According to court documents in the Gabriel Brown case, Brown and three people were inside his home on Beech Drive in Oglethorpe, Georgia, when several gunshots were fired into the home and one person was struck with shotgun pellets. Brown, who has three prior felonies, grabbed his Taurus handgun and fired four to five shots at a vehicle speeding away. Brown then went to grab another pistol. Emergency responders recognized Brown as a felon. Brown turned over three firearms inside his home: a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine; a fully loaded and chambered 5.56 caliber semi-automatic pistol fitted with a laser; and one fully loaded and chambered .45 ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol. Agents with GBI’s Southwest Regional Drug Enforcement Office executed a search warrant and found a 9x19 caliber semi-automatic pistol and ammunition.
These cases are being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The Raikwon Christian and the Trayon Brown cases were both investigated by ATF and the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).
The Gabriel Brown case was investigated by ATF, the GBI Region 3 Field Office, the GBI’s Southwest Regional Drug Enforcement Office, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office and the Montezuma Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Deitrick prosecuted the cases for the government.
Atlanta-Based Fentanyl, Meth Supplier to Central Georgia Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – An Atlanta resident supplying large quantities of controlled substances, including fentanyl, to distributors in the Milledgeville, Georgia, community pleaded guilty to his crime in federal court this week; other members of the conspiracy were also sentenced.
Lagary Williams aka “Frog,” 40, of Atlanta, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances on Oct. 30. Williams faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to a maximum of life in prison to be followed by at least five years of supervised release and a $10,000,000 fine. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for Feb. 7, 2024.
The following co-defendants, all residents of Milledgeville, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and were sentenced to prison on Oct. 31:
- Damon Hayes aka “D-5” was sentenced to serve 275 months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release;
- Derek Ingram was sentenced to serve 190 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release;
- Quintavius Horton aka “Bloody Bae” was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release; and
- Travarious Davis aka “D Red” was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.
Co-defendant, Billy Harper, of Milledgeville, was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison on Oct. 31 after he previously pleaded guilty to maintaining a drug involved premises.
Chief U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell is presiding over the cases. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“This Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case ultimately prevented enough fentanyl to kill hundreds of thousands of people from hitting the streets, undoubtedly saving Georgia lives,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Stopping armed fentanyl trafficking and holding those associated with its distribution accountable is a top priority for our office and our law enforcement partners.”
“Fentanyl and methamphetamine have taken a terrible toll on our communities,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Atlanta Division. “This drug distributor and his associates will now face the consequences of their actions.”
“A large amount of deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine was taken off the streets of Central Georgia, and a key supplier has been stopped,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “Partnering with law enforcement at every level, GBI will continue to dedicate resources to investigating armed drug distribution activity in a collective effort to make the communities we serve safer.”
“Our main supply of drugs into Central Georgia is coming from Atlanta. The work of local, state and federal law enforcement linked this Baldwin County drug trafficking network to a significant supplier in Atlanta,” said Ocmulgee Drug Task Force retired Commander Wesley Nunn. “Anytime we catch a fentanyl supplier means we are saving many lives.”
According to court documents, agents with the DEA Macon Resident Office (MRO), Ocmulgee Drug Task Force (ODTF) and the GBI received credible and reliable information from multiple confidential sources regarding illegal drug activities occurring in the Milledgeville area in July 2020. Hayes was identified as a multi-kilogram distributor of methamphetamine, powder cocaine and crack cocaine with Williams as his supply source. Through surveillance, agents observed Hayes acquire bulk quantities of narcotics from Williams’ luxury high-rise apartment in downtown Atlanta.
On Sept. 10, 2021, after intercepts on the wiretap indicated that Hayes was travelling to Atlanta to meet Williams for a drug re-supply meeting, a federal search warrant issued in the Northern District of Georgia was executed at Williams’ apartment. Agents encountered Williams and another person, who both jumped off the apartment’s balcony to evade capture. Both individuals were subsequently captured.
Agents recovered 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl in the apartment, as well as one kilogram of methamphetamine, two kilograms of cocaine, approximately 50 grams of cocaine base, approximately seven pounds of marijuana, a Glock 19 9mm pistol and a Ruger model 57 handgun.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by DEA, GBI, the Ocmulgee Drug Task Force, the Baldwin County Sherriff’s Office, the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s Office, the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, the Atlanta-Carolina’s HIDTA Office and the Gwinnett Metro Task Force.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the cases for the Government. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex Kalim previously prosecuted the case.
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Former UGA Football Player Convicted on All Counts in RaceTrac Shooting CaseRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A federal jury today convicted a Pennsylvania resident and former University of Georgia student and football player of federal charges resulting from a lengthy investigation into the shooting death of an Oconee County, Georgia, man.
Ahkil Nasir Crumpton aka “Crump,” 26, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was found guilty of one count of interference with commerce by attempted robbery and one count of false statement during the purchase of a firearm today. Crumpton faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for attempted robbery and a maximum of ten years in prison for the firearm charge. The sentencing date will be determined by the Court. The defendant is not eligible for parole. Crumpton is facing state charges for murder and other offenses in Georgia.
The trial began on Oct. 16 before U.S. District Judge Tilman “Tripp” Self.
“No matter today’s outcome, there is no returning Elijah Wood to his family and friends, who have had to endure both the pain of his loss and many unanswered questions,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Pursing justice in this case was challenging and lengthy, but ultimately the dedicated collaboration of investigators and prosecutors prevailed. I hope that today’s verdict offers some measure of justice for Elijah Wood’s family.”
“Ahkil Crumpton’s crime was senseless, tragic, and irreversible,” said Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Robert Gibbs of the FBI’s Athens office. “This outcome reflects the commitment of the FBI to working with our law enforcement partners to hold violent offenders accountable. We hope Elijah Wood’s family can find some healing in this verdict.”
“NIBIN is proven technology used to link the criminal use of firearms with the person who pulled the trigger,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. “In this case, NIBIN allowed investigators to successfully connect both shootings to the defendant. Working alongside our local, state and federal partners, ATF is committed to using every resource at our disposal to reduce violent crime and hold violent offenders accountable.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Crumpton was alone when he entered the RaceTrac gas station and convenience store on Macon Highway in Watkinsville, Georgia, on March 19, 2021, where Elijah Wood was working as the store clerk, filling in for a sick coworker. Crumpton’s face was covered, and he was wearing dark clothing and football gloves. There was another customer in the store; Crumpton is seen on surveillance video exiting and then returning at 1:15 a.m. Upon his return, Crumpton approached Wood, who was standing behind the counter at the cash register. Crumpton pointed a Glock 19 pistol with a weapon mounted light at Wood, firing one round at close range towards Wood, striking him in the chest. Wood’s girlfriend testified at trial that she was on a FaceTime call with Wood at the time. Crumpton ran out of the store without taking any money or merchandise. Wood died at the scene. The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) located one 9mm shell casing from the counter between two of the cash registers.
Four months later, on July 17, 2021, Crumpton was seen exiting the South Street Diner at 140 South Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at 3:18 a.m. to retrieve a Glock 43 pistol from a vehicle and was approached by Anthony Jones. Surveillance video from a nearby business captured the encounter between Jones and Crumpton. Jones brandished a silver handgun and pointed it at Crumpton, then appeared to grab the car keys out of Crumpton’s left hand. Jones forcefully removed the Glock 43 pistol from Crumpton’s right pocket while simultaneously holding him at gunpoint. When Jones turned around following the robbery and began to run away, Crumpton pulled a Glock 19 pistol from his waistband and fired 13 gunshots that ultimately struck and killed Jones. The spent 9mm shell casings ejected from Crumpton’s handgun were collected by law enforcement and later submitted to ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) for comparison testing. The analysis confirmed that the firearm used in the RaceTrac murder in Oconee County, Georgia, was the same firearm used in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, shooting.
On the morning of March 16, 2022, FBI and ATF agents arrested Crumpton in Philadelphia on a murder warrant issued out of the Superior Court of Oconee County, Georgia. Crumpton jumped out of his bedroom window to escape arrest, but he was taken into custody by FBI SWAT following a chase. Inside Crumpton’s bedroom, agents located the Glock 19 pistol that was confirmed in ballistics testing to be the one used in the shooting deaths of Elijah Wood in Oconee County and Anthony Jones in Philadelphia. The gun was found inside Crumpton’s official 2018 Rose Bowl Game backpack given to the players who competed in the football game. In addition, agents found items of clothing worn by Crumpton in both shooting deaths and a loaded AR-15 rifle.
Crumpton was a former member of the University of Georgia (UGA) football team, where he played wide receiver during the 2017 and 2018 season and attended UGA as a student from the fall of 2017 to the spring of 2021, although he did not graduate. At the time of Elijah Wood’s murder, Crumpton resided at an apartment in Watkinsville, Georgia, less than two miles from the RaceTrac, with his close friend and UGA football teammate, Juwan Taylor, who is currently a player development assistant for the team. Taylor testified at trial that Crumpton came to their apartment after the shooting holding the pistol and was visibly upset saying, “I didn’t mean to do it – I just wanted the money, I just shot him at the store, at the store.” Crumpton explained further that when he lifted the gun up, it “just went off.” Taylor said he was frightened for his own safety and did not tell anyone. In July 2021, Crumpton returned to live in his hometown of Philadelphia.
Co-defendant James North Armstrong, 35, of Commerce, Georgia, testified that Crumpton was a client of his at his tattoo studio. Armstrong testified that Crumpton asked him to purchase a gun for him. Armstrong admitted that he illegally purchased the Glock 19 for Crumpton on Feb. 8, 2021, at the Franklin Gun Shop in Athens, Georgia, by falsely claiming to be the buyer on the Firearms Transaction Record-Form 4473 when Crumpton was the actual buyer. It is a federal offense to lie on Form 4473. Armstrong pleaded guilty to one count of false statement during the purchase of a firearm on Oct. 3 and faces a maximum of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing for Armstrong will occur at a date determined by the Court.
Crumpton was originally indicted on four federal charges (for more information, please see https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/federal-murder-attempted-robbery-firearms-charges-filed-shooting-death-oconee-county). The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in United States v. Taylor, handed down a month and ten days after Crumpton’s federal indictment, found that attempted Hobbs Act robbery was not a crime of violence. Therefore, Counts Two and Three in Crumpton’s original indictment were dismissed prior to trial.
This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. For more information on NIBIN, please visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin.
The case was investigated by the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), FBI, GBI, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and the Philadelphia Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Morrison and Daniel Peach are prosecuting the case for the Government.
Columbus Businessman Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ga. –A Columbus, Georgia, resident admitted to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison resulting from an investigation by GBI.
Edward Sprouse Boyd, Sr., 49, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Oct. 24. Boyd faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by a maximum lifetime of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. In addition, Boyd will have to register as a sex offender upon release from federal prison. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 23, 2024. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“Our office will hold accountable those who possess, distribute or create child sexual assault material, content which profoundly harms kids,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “I want to commend the GBI for their dedicated and ceaseless efforts to protect children and bring predators to justice.”
“This case serves as a strong reminder of our commitment to protecting children from the atrocities of child sexual abuse. These acts against innocent children will not be tolerated in any capacity and our Child Exploitation & Computer Crimes Unit will continue to work with our local, state and federal partners for the protection of our children,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
According to court documents and evidence, the social media platform MeWe submitted several cybertips to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) concerning uploads of suspected child sexual assault material (also known as child pornography). The matter was referred to GBI, which determined that the user of the MeWe account was Boyd. A search of Boyd’s MeWe account uncovered CSAM material, including images of fully nude minor females around the age of puberty with their breasts and vaginas exposed, as well as child-centric sexually explicit chats with other users.
A search warrant was executed at Boyd’s home on Aug. 20, 2020. Eighteen electronic devices were seized during the execution of the warrant, to include a cell phone belonging to Boyd. A forensic examination of his cell phone revealed that it contained 5,047 images and 1,157 videos categorized as child abuse material plus 10,643 images and 1,013 videos categorized as child exploitative/age difficult. The images and videos were submitted by the GBI to the NCMEC to both confirm any previously identified minor victims and to enter any unidentified minor victims into their database for possible future identification. The NCMEC identified 125 image files and 30 video files, spanning 82 series.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by the GBI, with assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Crawford Seals is prosecuting the case for the Government.
National Constitutional Militia Member Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing GunsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Mississippi convicted felon and member of an anti-government extremist group who took part in discussions to kidnap and attack federal officials on Thanksgiving Day 2022 pleaded guilty this week to illegally possessing firearms during a trip to Georgia.
Joshua Colston, 50, of Corinth, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon before U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Oct. 18. Colston faces a maximum sentence of fifteen years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court. Colston is not eligible for parole.
“Extremist convicted felons who choose to illegally arm themselves will be held federally accountable when they are caught with guns in the Middle District of Georgia,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “I want to thank the dedicated FBI agents involved in this case for their tireless efforts to protect our nation and bring this defendant to justice.”
“Thanks to the hard work and collaboration of our law enforcement partners, Colston will spend significant time behind bars where he will not be able to carry out any of his extremist plans to harm members of our community,” said Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Albany office. “This plea should send the message that the FBI is determined to hold violent felons accountable with lengthy prison sentences and no opportunity for parole.”
According to court documents, the FBI investigation revealed that Colston and others participated in discussions on a Zello chat channel entitled “NCM Leadership.” Zello is an encrypted push-to-talk application used on cellular phones. “NCM” is an abbreviation for the National Constitutional Militia, an anti-government extremist organization. Colston and other NCM members discussed a plan to kidnap or attack elected federal officials on Thanksgiving Day 2022. Ultimately, the Thanksgiving Day plan never developed due to the group’s lack of resources and poor health of the members.
FBI agents took Colston into custody on Dec. 14, 2022, in Fitzgerald, Georgia, where Colston had travelled to purchase horses. Colston told agents he planned to travel horseback across the country for several years and that he was preparing to go “off the grid.” The FBI believed that Colston had training in explosives and knew him to be a convicted felon. Colston was in possession of five firearms: a 9mm semiautomatic pistol, a .40 semiautomatic pistol, a .22 semiautomatic rifle, a semiautomatic shotgun and a .44 lever-action rifle. The semiautomatic rifle was reported stolen in Alcorn County, Mississippi. In addition to the firearms, Colston had a bulletproof vest and a significant amount of ammunition, including armor piercing rounds in his vehicle. Colston has prior convictions in Texas for third degree felony theft and a state jail felony for criminal mischief. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess firearms.
This case was investigated by FBI and the Ben Hill County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government with assistance from the Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division.
Crisp County Career Offender Sentenced to Prison for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – A Cordele, Georgia, resident with prior serious felony drug convictions was sentenced as a career offender to serve 180 months in prison resulting from an investigation into drug trafficking in the community.
Alexis Sylvester Holton, 43, was sentenced to serve 180 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner today after he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine on April 11. Holton is not eligible for parole.
“The most disruptive repeat offenders in Crisp County and across the district will face the possibility of federal charges for their continued criminal actions causing significant harm in the communities where they reside,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “I want to commend the cooperation displayed by our local, state and federal partners in the Middle District of Georgia to make our communities as safe as possible.”
“This investigation has resulted in the disruption of a significant methamphetamine supply to the Cordele area. We are grateful for our partnership with the other investigative agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for seeing this case through successfully,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
“It is always reassuring that when we identify major drug offenders in our community, we can rely on our state and federal partners to assist us in working and presenting the cases for prosecution,” said Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock. “It is a good day to know that our community is a little safer because justice was served.”
According to court documents and other public information, Holton sold a total of 279.51 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant (CI) working with GBI and Crisp County Sheriff’s Office investigators during nine exchanges, beginning in Oct. 2021, until his arrest on Feb. 9, 2022, in Cordele. Holton has several prior convictions, including two prior serious felony drug convictions in the Superior Court of Crisp County, Georgia.
This case was investigated by GBI, DEA and the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid.
Prisoner Sentenced to 27+ Years for Directing Meth Distribution from Behind BarsRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A Georgia Department of Corrections (DOC) prisoner and Sureños 13 gang member was sentenced to serve 330 months in a federal prison this week for his involvement in a large armed drug trafficking conspiracy directed out of jail facilities in Mexico and Georgia that is responsible for distributing more than 100 kilograms of methamphetamine.
David Zavala aka “Toro,” 30, of Mexico, was sentenced to serve 330 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on Oct. 16 after he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Dec. 11, 2020. Zavala is not eligible for parole.
“David Zavala was relentless in his efforts to direct a dangerous methamphetamine distribution network from behind bars, threatening both the safety of our communities and all those living and working in the prison with him,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Law enforcement at every level is committed to dismantling these types of criminal organizations and helping us hold them accountable.”
“It’s alarming to think that these criminals were brazen enough to distribute dangerous drugs while behind bars,” said Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Division. “But they must now face the consequences.”
According to court documents, law enforcement officers in the Middle District of Georgia began investigating Zavala’s drug trafficking organization in 2016, along with related criminal networks operating from jail facilities in Mexico and Georgia. On May 30, 2016, co-defendant Andrew Young was arrested in Oglethorpe County, Georgia, for possession of a stolen car out of McAllen, Texas, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Agents discovered communications between Andrew Young and Zavala, a Georgia DOC inmate, detailing trips between McAllen, Texas, and Georgia that Young took at Zavala’s behest to pick up methamphetamine and drop it at locations named by Zavala.
Zavala and co-defendant Bruce Hicks served as so-called “plugs” in the prison system, linking Mexican cartel drug distributors to customers and associates on the outside. Additional co-defendants linked to the conspiracy, including co-defendants Malcody Dinges, J.C. and T.O., were also Georgia DOC inmates at the time of the investigation. These inmates used social media and contraband cell phones to conduct and direct drug sales and move the drug proceeds to other members of the conspiracy.
While in custody, Zavala conducted methamphetamine transactions using contraband cell phones and social media platforms. Zavala would message his associates to direct and coordinate deliveries of methamphetamine to individuals and instruct others on how to make payments to him. In this case, Zavala is being held personally responsible for the distribution of between 15 and 30 kilograms of methamphetamine. The entire criminal network tied to him is responsible for distributing more than 100 kilograms of methamphetamine. Zavala is a confirmed Sureños 13 gang member and has been in Georgia DOC custody since 2012 for prior state convictions for armed robbery and false imprisonment. For more information about this case, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdga/pr/three-defendants-sentenced-prison-directed-armed-drug-trafficking-conspiracy.
The following co-defendants in related cases have been sentenced:
Bruce Hicks, a/k/a “Bruno,” a/k/a “Bruce Incc,” of Athens, was sentenced to serve 260 months in prison on Jan. 8, 2020, after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Jan. 1, 2019;
Malcody Dinges aka “Cody” aka “Yes, Sir Cody,” 44, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison (to run consecutive to any state-imposed sentence) to be followed by three years of supervised release on May 12, 2022, after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Dec. 16, 2021;
Joey Fowler 42, of Royston, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 235 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Adonias Sales Temaj aka “Alacran,” 29, a citizen of Guatemala and resident of Norcross, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 210 months in prison on March 7 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on July 14;
Frankie Baza, of Gwinnett County, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 200 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on June 3, 2021, after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine;
Johnathan Powell 43, of, Athens, was sentenced to serve 188 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute on July 17, 2017;
Mathew Shaver, 47, of Oglethorpe County, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 168 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Ervin Sales Temaj aka “Milton Aguilar,” 35, a citizen of Guatemala and resident of Norcross, was sentenced to serve 121 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on July 14, 2022, after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on April 13, 2022;
Laura Yazmine Garcia Guerro, aka “Yazmin Garcia,” aka “Yaz,” 30, a citizen of Mexico and a resident of Duluth, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release on July 18 after she previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine on July 13, 2021;
Carrie Kasper, 32, of Athens, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison on July 10 after she pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on July 15, 2021;
Cindy Stamey, 50, of Danielsville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release on Sept. 18, after a federal jury found her guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of methamphetamine on Sept. 21, 2022;
Garret Wolford, 37, of Athens, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Jeris Dove aka “Jeris Southers,” 29, of Athens, was sentenced to serve 110 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release on Jan. 20, 2022, after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Oct. 18, 2021;
Peggy Bentley, 52, of Watkinsville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 100 months after she pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Steven Turbeville 42, of Winder, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 95 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute;
Russel Huckaba, 46, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 70 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Mechelle Morris, 48, of Oglethorpe County, was sentenced to serve 55 months in prison after she pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Christopher Wilson, 42, of Hull, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 55 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Sept. 18 after he previously pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on April 13, 2022;
Justin Maddox, 45, of Athens, was sentenced to serve 30 months in prison on Jan. 11, 2023, after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Aug. 3, 2021;
Ricky Keith Young aka “Ricky Bobby,” of Monroe, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 29 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to illegal use of communication devices;
Joey Arguelles aka “Chief,” 28, of Lavonia, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute;
Katlyn Lackey, 22, of Commerce, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 20 months in prison on Jan. 12, 2023, after she pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine May 12, 2022; and
James Andrew Young aka “Drew,” 29, of Arnoldsville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve nine months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute.
The following co-defendant is awaiting sentencing:
Brendan R. Gates, 38, of Commerce, was found guilty by a federal jury of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on Sept. 21, 2022, and faces a maximum of life imprisonment. Sentencing will occur at a date determined by the Court.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
These cases are being investigated by DEA Macon Resident Office, FBI Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, Clarke County Sheriff's Office, Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, Hart County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Greene County Sheriff’s Office, Oglethorpe County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia Department of Corrections and Northeast Regional Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett is prosecuting the cases for the Government.
Atlanta Resident Supplying Armed Meth, Fentanyl Organization Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – The supplier of an armed methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking organization who was providing kilogram quantities of narcotics out of her high-rise condominium located in Atlanta’s Buckhead community pleaded guilty to her crimes today.
Heather Breland, 39, of Atlanta, pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting co-defendant Randall Heath’s possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine before U.S. District Judge Marc T. Treadwell. Breland faces a mandatory minimum of ten years up to a maximum of life in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release and a maximum $10,000,000 fine. Co-defendant Randall Heath, 62, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine today and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by at least three years of supervised release and a maximum $1,000,000 fine. The remaining seven co-defendants indicted in this case have all previously entered guilty pleas:
Raiford Reeves aka “RH,” 43, of Warner Robins, Georgia, pleaded guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and faces a mandatory minimum of ten years imprisonment up to a maximum of life in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release;
Travis Warthen aka “Trap,” 39, of Warner Robins, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and faces a mandatory minimum of ten years up to a maximum of life in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release;
Jeremiah Kaleta, 46, of Warner Robins, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by at least three years of supervised release;
Lucretia Snellgrove, 51, of Warner Robins, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by at least three years of supervised release;
Kendall Howard, 31, of Centerville, Georgia, pleaded guilty to use of a communication facility to unlawfully conspire to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release;
Kenneth Maddox, 31, of Warner Robins, pleaded guilty to use of a communication facility to unlawfully conspire to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release; and
Luis Acosta, 35, of Centerville, pleaded guilty to use of a communication facility to unlawfully conspire to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release.
Sentencing will occur for all defendants at dates determined by the Court. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“Heather Breland went to great lengths to evade justice for supplying kilos of deadly narcotics to her network of drug distributors in Central Georgia. Ultimately, she was caught and will now be held accountable for her crimes, along with her co-defendants,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This case is the result of a lengthy investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force, a group of law enforcement agencies working hand-in-hand across the Middle District of Georgia to crack down on criminal organizations doing the most harm in our communities.”
“These violent and dangerous drug traffickers are enriching their lives by profiting off someone else’s pain and addiction,” stated Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “These defendants will now face significant federal prison time.”
“Heather Breland and Randall Heath were involved in an organized network designed to peddle poison onto the streets of our community. Most law enforcement agencies don’t have the resources to handle investigations to combat organizations like this one. We are fortunate to have federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in Middle Georgia that recognize the benefit of working together in order to keep our communities safe,” said Peach County Sheriff Terry W. Deese.
“The successful prosecution and disruption of this organization exemplifies what can be done when local, state and federal agencies work together. These efforts have made Warner Robins and Peach County safer. I am extremely proud of the part our officers provided in this case and its outcome,” said Warner Robins Interim Police Chief Roy Whitehead.
According to court documents, DEA agents and local law enforcement investigated co-defendant Reeves’s Warner Robins-based drug trafficking organization between Oct. 2021 and June 2022. Breland—the supplier to the organization—was distributing kilogram quantities of narcotics, primarily methamphetamine and fentanyl, to Reeves out of her condominium located in the Buckhead community in Atlanta. Law enforcement obtained court orders to intercept the phone calls and text messages from cell phones belonging to Breland and Reeves and conducted controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Reeves. Reeves would supply other co-defendants with some of the narcotics to sell. Agents observed Breland travel to Macon to provide narcotics to Reeves; she also had a self-storage unit in Macon on Riverside Drive to store drugs.
Agents learned Breland was planning to provide co-defendant Heath with narcotics. On May 21, 2022, Heath took an airport shuttle service to Atlanta; Breland ordered Heath a ride-hailing service from the shuttle station to her condominium. Heath returned to Macon on the same shuttle service on May 25 and was seen exiting the shuttle station with a suitcase and got into his car. A traffic stop was conducted, and a K9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the car. Agents found a kilogram of methamphetamine inside his suitcase. On May 26, agents executed a search warrant at a motel Reeves and co-defendant Howard occupied in Warner Robins; Reeves was in the process of flushing methamphetamine down a toilet when agents entered the room. Agents seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, oxycodone, alprazolam, clonazepam, codeine and a 9mm semi-automatic pistol. That same day, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Breland’s condominium. Breland immediately fled in her Range Rover as agents arrived. In her residence, agents seized 3.266 kilograms of pure methamphetamine, 14.72 grams of fentanyl, cocaine, marijuana, a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a .22 magnum caliber revolver, two cellphones and $78,353 cash. On the same day, agents executed a search warrant at her storage unit in Macon and seized eight pounds of marijuana in a Louis Vuitton duffle bag.
Following the execution of the search warrant, Breland fled to North Carolina, created a fictitious license plate, and changed her hair length and color. She was arrested by U.S. Marshals on Oct. 20, 2022, at a hotel and casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. When she was arrested, she had methamphetamine and ID cards with a similar appearance but false identifying information. Breland has seven prior felony convictions for forgery, possession of methamphetamine, burglary and identity fraud. Co-defendant Reeves has prior convictions for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm during commission of a felony.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Warner Robins Police Department, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Peach County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case.
Mexican National Sentenced to Prison for Meth Distribution in NE GeorgiaRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. – A Mexican national who was residing in Atlanta was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for methamphetamine distribution in the Athens-Clarke County region.
Esteban Palacios Chamu, 30, of Atlanta and Mexico, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. Self, III on Oct. 3 after he previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“The distribution of large quantities of the most addictive illegal drugs contributes to criminal activity that is undermining the safety of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Local law enforcement is collaborating with our office and our partners at every level to identify and hold accountable those individuals and criminal groups participating in the distribution of this poison.”
“Those who distribute methamphetamine create a serious risk to the community,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “This trafficker can no longer deliver dangerous drugs on the streets and must now face the consequences of his actions.”
According to court documents, a Madison County Sheriff’s deputy pulled Chamu’s vehicle over for failing to maintain its lane on Dec. 10, 2021, in Colbert, Madison County, Georgia. The defendant, who was driving, did not have a driver’s license or identification card. Chamu gave his name and date of birth; the officers discovered Chamu had arrest warrants out of Doraville, Georgia. An officer smelled marijuana coming from Chamu’s car. Chamu was placed under arrest. Inside Chamu’s car, officers found a drug ledger, a plastic bag with a large chunk of methamphetamine, a large gallon-size bag with methamphetamine, a baggie with methamphetamine, a black bag with digital scales and several cell phones, plus more digital scales, a box of Ziplock bags and other drug distribution items in the glove box. Officers discovered additional methamphetamine wrapped in duct tape hidden inside one of the seats. In all, Chamu was in possession of 1,190.21 grams of methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the DEA, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia State Patrol, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Jarrett prosecuted the case for the Government.
Northeast Georgian Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
ATHENS, Ga. –A Madison County, Georgia, resident convicted by a federal jury of distributing and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) days after GBI investigators discovered evidence that he was continuing to distribute CSAM and had concurrently cut off his ankle monitor to escape custody was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison.
Christopher Snow, 36, of Carlton, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison to be followed by ten years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. Self, III today after he was convicted on June 7 of one count of distribution of child sexual abuse material and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material following a two-day trial. Snow will have to register as a sex offender upon release from federal prison. The defendant is not eligible for parole.
“Individuals participating in any part of the appalling online world of sexually abusing children—its creation, distribution or possession—will be held to account for these crimes which profoundly harm kids,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “This case, like so many others our office works, was successfully adjudicated thanks to the collaboration of many different groups and agencies focused on protecting children and bringing predators to justice.”
“This case serves as a strong reminder of our commitment to protecting children from the atrocities of child sexual abuse. The GBI remains resolute in its pursuit of justice and will not tolerate those who exploit the innocence of our most vulnerable population,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
“Snow not only distributed the disturbing material for years but didn’t stop even after he was under arrest and facing trial,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that people like this receive their full measure of justice.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, GBI received a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in Aug. 2018 that a Facebook user distributed suspected CSAM via Facebook Messenger. As a part of their investigation, GBI was able to determine that the user of that Facebook account resided in Carlton, Madison County, Georgia. A search warrant was executed at Snow’s residence in Carlton; law enforcement seized several electronic devices that Snow kept in a padlocked room. A digital forensic examiner later determined that those electronic devices, including the phone that was found on Snow the day of the search warrant, contained at least 45 images and 17 videos of CSAM. The material contained images of children under the age of 12.
As a condition of Snow’s pretrial release, he was required to wear an ankle monitor and not have access to electronic devices. On June 1, 2023, GBI received an additional Cybertip indicating that Snow may have been continuing to distribute CSAM on the Kik messenger app in 2022, while awaiting trial. Snow was scheduled for a federal hearing on June 2 prior to his trial but cut off his ankle monitor on June 1. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals on June 5.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The case was investigated by the GBI, with assistance from the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex Kalim and Robert McCullers prosecuted the case for the Government with assistance from Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes.
Jury Convicts Macon Residents for Armed Fentanyl, Meth, Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A federal jury convicted two Macon residents and members of a local criminal street gang organization on multiple federal charges Monday evening for their roles in the armed distribution of large quantities of drugs, which often tested to be deadly fentanyl mixes.
Johnifer Dernard Barnwell aka “Whoop” aka “Malixe,” 37, of Macon, and Kenneth Emanuel Pertillo aka “Fat Boy,” 37, of Macon, West Virginia and North Carolina, were found guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine and heroin, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and cocaine base. Barnwell was also convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The trial began on Sept. 25 before U.S. District Judge Royal, concluding Oct. 2. Both defendants face a maximum sentence of life in prison on each narcotics charge and a $10,000,000 fine. Barnwell additionally faces five consecutive years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine for the firearms charge. Sentencing will be determined by the Court. The defendants are not eligible for parole.
“As part of our collective commitment to directly address violence in Macon, law enforcement conducted this lengthy investigation to unravel a violent and armed organized criminal group distributing large amounts of fentanyl, often sold to people as other drugs,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “In collaboration with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners, our office is resolved to bring justice to those who terrorize our neighborhoods with unrelenting violence and poison our communities with fentanyl and other deadly drugs.”
“Gangs wreak havoc on local residents, engaging in violence and peddling dangerous drugs that devastate communities and families," said Senior Supervisory Special Agent Robert Gibbs of FBI Macon. "As this case demonstrates, cooperation between federal, state and local law enforcement is vital to dismantling violent criminal enterprises and keeping our communities safe."
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, FBI began investigating a large-scale fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine distribution organization in Macon and the Central Georgia region in March 2020. Federal agents identified Pertillo and Barnwell as distributors and part of the MOB (Money Over Bitches) sect of the Mafia criminal street gang. To advance the investigation, agents conducted multiple controlled purchases from various defendants in the case and obtained orders authorizing wiretaps on five phones used by members of the organization, including Barnwell. Controlled purchases occurred at trap houses on Mimosa Drive and Culver Street, and at a local nightclub, among other locations. Illegal drugs being sold as “heroin” often tested as a fentanyl mix.
On July 20, 2021, FBI executed search warrants at eleven Macon addresses identified as trap houses or distribution locations on Mimosa Drive, Culver Street, Forest Hill Road, Riverside Park Boulevard, Lucerne Drive, Shurling Drive and Kingsview Drive. Agents found approximately eight kilograms of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and cocaine base plus 20 firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, large-capacity firearm magazines and more than $50,000 cash. At one location—an apartment identified as a drug “lab” at 3990 Riverside Park Blvd. where Barnwell and Pertillo would mix fentanyl and heroin in a kitchen blender before selling it—agents found approximately 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, nearly one kilogram of pure fentanyl, more than one kilogram of a pure fentanyl chemical analogue and more than two kilograms of blends containing fentanyl, heroin and fentanyl analogue mix. Agents also found nearly half a kilogram of pure heroin, more than 280 grams of cocaine base, 80 grams of cocaine and 64 grams of ketamine. Agents seized several firearms, a fully loaded AR14 drum magazine, ammunition and $5,778 cash at that location.
In all, the organization is responsible for distributing or possessing with the intent to distribute more than three kilograms of fentanyl or fentanyl analogue, 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, nearly two kilograms of heroin and significant quantities of cocaine base and cocaine.
The following co-defendants have been convicted and are awaiting sentencing:
Christopher Leon Coleman aka “Slim,” 41, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years up to a maximum of life in prison and a $10,000,000 fine;
Troy Truelle Williams, Sr., aka “Ty, 54, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl and heroin. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to a maximum of 40 years in prison to be followed by six years of supervised release and a $2,000,000 fine;
De’Kerio Ja’mel Coleman aka “Dee,” 35, of Macon, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;
Joshua Antoine Green aka “J” or “Jay,” 32, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;
Gregory Bernard Jolly aka “Stank,” 38, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;
Johnnie B. Lowe, 67, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;
Rochelle Oliver aka “Chelle,” 40, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. She faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;
Recardo Keon Ray aka “Keon,” 38, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;
Tiara Thomas aka “Red,” 23, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl. She faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine; and
Michael Clifford White, 40, of Macon, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine.
The following co-defendants have been convicted and sentenced:
Romello Campbell, 21, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on May 9 after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine;
Diamond Monique Thomas, 27, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on July 11 after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine; and
Jameliha Shalonda Coleman aka “Juicy,” 26, of Macon, was sentenced to serve 90 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on June 9 after she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from numerous agencies who participated in executing search warrants and conducting arrests, including the DEA, the GBI, the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, the Butts County Sheriff’s Office, the Bleckley County Sheriff’s Office, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Department of Corrections, the Perry Police Department and the Athens-Clarke County Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case for the Government.
SW Georgian Sentenced in Americus Walmart Stolen Gun CaseRead the Press Release
ALBANY, Ga. – An Americus, Georgia resident prohibited from having a firearm because of past criminal convictions was sentenced to serve more than seven years in prison for illegally possessing a gun when he was arrested for stealing rifles from the local Walmart; he sold the guns in the community for cash and drugs.
Brandon Michael Hatfield, 31, was sentenced to serve 85 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Louis Sands on Sept. 28 after he previously pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on May 25. Hatfield is not eligible for parole.
“Illegal firearms trafficking at any level is directly contributing to violence on our streets by supplying dangerous people with weapons,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Law enforcement is working to reduce the number of firearms in the hands of criminals in an effort to improve the safety in Americus and within every community across the Middle District of Georgia.”
“The unlawful acquisition and selling of firearms are serious crimes that feed and intensify the violence that plagues so many communities here and abroad," said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka. "This investigation illustrates the collective resolve of ATF and our law enforcement partners working together to make a safer community.”
According to court documents, Hatfield attempted to steal a Rossi, 22LR caliber rifle from the Walmart in Americus, Georgia, on Nov. 18, 2022, but was stopped by Walmart employees before he could exit the store with the weapon. An investigation by Walmart’s security team revealed that Hatfield stole a total of five rifles on five different occasions from the store between Nov. 1 and Nov. 16. Hatfield admitted that he stole the firearms and traded them for money and drugs.
Hatfield has been convicted of several felonies, including dealing methamphetamine, escape and residential entry in Decatur County, Indiana, Superior Court. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
The case was investigated by ATF and the Americus Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid is prosecuting the case for the Government.