GBI Busts Southwest Georgia Drug Ring With Metro Atlanta Connections
SUMTER COUNTY, GA. — A 10-month drug trafficking investigation led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has resulted in eight arrests, the seizure of 17 kilograms of suspected cocaine, and 10 firearms across southwest Georgia. Officials estimate the street value of the confiscated drugs at more than $1 million.
The operation, called “Operation Halftime,” targeted cocaine trafficking networks with ties to metro Atlanta, specifically within Sumter, Webster, and Dougherty counties.
Details of the Operation
According to the GBI Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office, investigators executed multiple search warrants across Fulton, Henry, Sumter, Webster, and Dougherty counties, collecting evidence that led to several felony arrests for conspiracy to traffic cocaine.
The individuals arrested include:
- Maurice Antwan Young, 42, of Preston, GA — Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
- Mario Lanorris Robinson, 47, of Fulton County, GA — Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
- Alvin Paige, 56, of Richland, GA — Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
- Clinton Terran Thomas, 46, of Albany, GA — Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
- Derrick Flowers, 40, of Americus, GA — Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
- Calvin Jerome Smith, 42, of Americus, GA — Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine
- Jalen Lewis, 22, of Albany, GA — Trafficking Cocaine
- John Johnson, 48, of Buena Vista, GA — Possession of Cocaine
Officials said Young, Robinson, Thomas, Flowers, Smith, Lewis, and Johnson were booked into the Sumter County Jail, while Paige was booked into Schley County Jail.
GBI Seizes Cocaine and Firearms
During the final phase of the investigation, GBI agents seized 17 kilograms of cocaine and 10 firearms, though authorities have not disclosed exactly where the drugs were found.
Officials have also not confirmed whether the eight suspects belonged to the same organization or if additional arrests are expected. The agency says federal charges and court dates may be forthcoming as the case develops.
“This investigation highlights the collaborative effort between state and local law enforcement to dismantle major drug trafficking networks operating in Georgia,” a GBI spokesperson said.
Operation Halftime and the GBI’s Ongoing Work
“Operation Halftime” was coordinated by the GBI Southwestern Regional Drug Enforcement Office, which oversees a 42-county area in southwest Georgia. The task force works with local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and federal partners to combat large-scale drug operations.
Authorities say the arrests represent a major disruption to cocaine distribution channels stretching from South Georgia into metro Atlanta.
Public Encouraged to Report Drug Activity
The GBI continues to encourage citizens to play a role in combating drug trafficking by reporting suspicious activity.
Anyone with information about illegal drug operations in southwest Georgia is urged to contact:
- GBI Tipline: 229-420-1254
- Anonymous Tip Line: 1-800-597-TIPS (8477)
Officials say community cooperation remains key to identifying and dismantling criminal networks.
Residents can follow updates on this case and other Georgia law enforcement actions at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
