Federal authorities have taken significant action against two large networks involved in smuggling drugs and contraband into Georgia state prisons using drones. Despite numerous investigations, inmates have continued to find ways to bring illegal substances and other forbidden items into prison facilities. However, a recent federal operation aims to put an end to this dangerous practice.
This week, federal prosecutors unsealed two indictments charging 23 people, including inmates, for their roles in a sophisticated scheme to use drones to deliver drugs and cell phones into Georgia prisons. Among those charged is Alan Hall, also known as “Krook,” who is currently incarcerated at the Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison in Jackson, Georgia. He faces charges of conspiracy to use drones to transport illegal drugs and contraband cell phones into various state prisons.
The charges, announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia, include conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute marijuana and methamphetamine. If convicted, the accused could face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison, substantial financial penalties, and at least five years of supervised release, with no possibility of parole.
“These indictments identify networks of individuals determined to introduce into prisons controlled substances and other contraband that compromise the safety and security of individuals who are held in those facilities and those employed there. These actions also endanger members of the outside public,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg in a press release.
The investigation, named “Operation Night Drop,” uncovered two separate networks of inmates who collaborated with people outside the prison system to smuggle contraband into Smith State Prison in Glennville, Telfair State Prison in McRae-Helena, and other facilities. The operation, which began in 2019, continued until July 2024, revealing the extent of the smuggling activities.
Authorities seized 10 drones and 21 firearms during the investigation. In addition to the conspiracy charges, some of the defendants were also charged with unlawful use of communication facilities, including using cell phones to coordinate their illegal activities. The indictments include transcripts of text conversations between the accused individuals, providing further evidence of their involvement in the smuggling ring.
The first indictment, USA v. Hall, lists 15 defendants, including Alan Hall, Deivon Waller, Travious Bateman, Asa Ward, Devonn Collins, Torlandus Fuller, Martin Holmes, Raymond Razo, Marquest Chandler, Chad Henry, Katrina Hampton, Jamar Hill, Raane Onessimo, and Donald Pate. The second indictment, USA v. Harris, includes seven defendants: Robert Harris, Kelvin Rogers, Quinton Samples, Thomas Cothran, Quinesha Oliver, Quintaveous Samples, and Tristahn Ash.
David Williams, 35, of Atlanta, is also named in the USA v. Harris indictment. He faces additional charges for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm.
Prior to “Operation Night Drop,” authorities conducted another successful investigation called “Operation Skyhawk” in March 2024. During this operation, the task force managed to seize 87 drones, 22 firearms, 67 pounds of marijuana, and 12 pounds of methamphetamine. They also arrested 150 suspects, including eight correctional officers, according to a statement by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp.
“Georgia will not tolerate those who put our communities at risk by trafficking drugs, weapons, and contraband both in and out of our correctional facilities. We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Georgians,” Governor Kemp stated.