Contraband
Phone scams run from Georgia prisons: prosecutions, added time, how the phones get in
Prosecutions and added sentences for phone scams run from Georgia prisons, and how the phones get in.
Where this research is used
This page is a research collection: individual facts drawn from the sources listed further down, each traced to where it came from. A research topic brings many collections together into one overview of an issue. The facts on this page feed these 4 topics; open one to see how they fit with the rest of the evidence.
Communications & Technology
Georgia's prison communications system runs on a single dominant vendor, Securus Technologies, whose contract returns 59.6 percent of every call's revenue to the Georgia Department of Corrections — among the highest commission rates in the country. Around that phone contract sits a second, parallel business: roughly $50 million in state spending on managed access systems that block contraband phones, sold in part by the same company that profits when incarcerated people cannot reach the outside. This page documents how the technology, the contracts, and the rules of contact fit together, what Georgia families pay, what the blocking approach has and has not delivered, and what the state still refuses to disclose.
5,823 data points
Legal Standards & Case Law
Georgia's prison-conditions litigation runs through a small set of Supreme Court and Eleventh Circuit decisions that set an unusually demanding bar: a plaintiff must prove both an objectively serious deprivation and that officials actually knew of and disregarded it. This page traces that doctrine from Estelle v. Gamble (1976) through Farmer v. Brennan (1994) and the Eleventh Circuit's 2024 en banc reset in Wade v. McDade, then sets it against Georgia's own record — Guthrie, Cason, the Gumm solitary-confinement settlement and its 2024 contempt finding, and the Justice Department's October 2024 conclusion that Georgia's prisons violate the Eighth Amendment. It closes with the people in GPS's death registry whose deaths sit directly on that doctrine.
11,676 data points
Oversight & Accountability
Georgia runs one of the nation's largest prison systems with no independent body empowered to inspect it, no ombudsman outside the Department of Corrections, and no public reporting requirement attached to the $600 million it has been voted for prison spending. A six-year federal civil rights investigation found constitutional violations across the system in October 2024 and recommended 82 remedial measures; more than 230 days after its 49-day litigation deadline expired, no one had been arrested, fired, or sued as a result. What remains is a closed loop in which the department investigates its own deaths, codes its own mortality data, disciplines — or does not discipline — its own staff, and classifies its investigative files as confidential state secrets.
20,251 data points
Parole & Sentencing
Georgia's parole system is a discretionary clemency power, not a release schedule, and the record shows it has become steadily stingier: the lifer grant rate fell from 21.9 percent in fiscal years 2001–2006 to 5.8 percent in fiscal years 2022–2025, and overall parole releases dropped 42 percent between fiscal years 2019 and 2024. Meanwhile the statutory floor for parole eligibility for the state's most serious offenses rose from seven years to fourteen and then to thirty, and average time served on a life sentence climbed from under nine years in 1973 to 29.6 years in fiscal year 2025. The consequence is a growing population of aging, parole-eligible people who remain incarcerated while more than half of all releases now come at the expiration of a sentence rather than through the parole board.
15,260 data points
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection. Tap a card for the full finding and its source.
The finding
Lance Riddle, aka "C-Port," was sentenced to serve a total of 200 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, to run consecutively to any state sentence.
The finding
A December 23, 2025 letter from state attorneys general to the FCC states that inmates at a Georgia state prison learned they could defeat the prison's Wireless Containment System by dialing 911, and using contraband cell phones were able to overwhelm and shut down the entire 911 center, part of the largest 911 system in Georgia, encompassing 13 counties.
Source
The finding
Arthur Cofield, a Georgia man, was convicted of leading an $11 million fraud scheme while in custody through contraband phones, and later escaped from a federal minimum-security prison camp next to FCI Jessup in Georgia.
The finding
Two Georgia inmates orchestrated a phone scheme from behind bars, extorting at least 119 citizens by demanding payment for supposed missed jury-duty fines.
The finding
The scheme resulted in more than $464,920 in documented losses.
The finding
Damon Thomas Young, 39, of Ranger, Georgia, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $30,000 restitution, with five years of the federal sentence to run consecutively to his state sentence.
The finding
Many female victims were told that because of supposed heightened courthouse security they needed to go to a local Target store, enter a restroom, undress and record themselves performing a self-conducted cavity search before verifying their signature, and some victims subsequently received lewd and sexually explicit messages including photos of male genitalia and violent threats.
The finding
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia stated that more than 45 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers and contract correctional officers were charged in seven separate federal indictments with smuggling contraband into prisons and accepting bribe payments in exchange for providing protection for drug deals that were part of a federal undercover operation.
The finding
In total, more than 300 military members throughout the United States were victims of the sextortion scheme operated out of SCDC, and the amount of loss exceeded $350,000; several military members committed suicide after falling victim to the extortion scheme.
The finding
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr's office states that in 2024 the Georgia Department of Corrections seized and processed over 15,500 cell phones and more than 150 drones.
The finding
Corrupt Georgia prison guards in Operation Ghost Guard typically earned $500 to $1,000 for smuggling a single cell phone to a prisoner.
All Data Points
179 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Lance Riddle sentenced to 200 months Legal fact
Lance Riddle, aka "C-Port," was sentenced to serve a total of 200 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, to run consecutively to any state sentence.
GDC seized 8,074 cell phones in CY2022 shakedowns Statistic
GDC reported that during calendar year 2022, 8,074 cell phones and 3,241 cell phone chargers were among the contraband confiscated through facility shakedowns.
8,074 cell phones
Nicholas Rotunda Allen pleads guilty to wire fraud conspiracy for grand jury scam Case detail
Nicholas Rotunda Allen, age 39, an inmate at Jimmy Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371, for his role in a grand jury fraud scam victimizing a resident of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Seventeen charged in prison-run drug trafficking ring Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia stated that three current Georgia Department of Corrections inmates and fourteen others were charged federally for their roles in a wide-ranging drug trafficking conspiracy operating from within prison walls, using contraband cellular telephones inside of prison.
Inmates defeated Wireless Containment System by dialing 911, shut down 13-county 911 center Case detail
A December 23, 2025 letter from state attorneys general to the FCC states that inmates at a Georgia state prison learned they could defeat the prison's Wireless Containment System by dialing 911, and using contraband cell phones were able to overwhelm and shut down the entire 911 center, part of the largest 911 system in Georgia, encompassing 13 counties.
Source
GDC PROscan deployment at 18 facilities Policy
Correctional News reports that GDC has deployed SDF's PROscan correctional cellular interdiction technology at 18 GDC correctional facilities, with additional sites planned through 2026.
GDC arrests of staff and civilians for contraband since Feb 2015 Statistic
GDC Commissioner Homer Bryson testified that since becoming Commissioner in February 2015, GDC had arrested more than one hundred staff members and close to 200 civilians for introducing contraband, with cell phone seizures in the thousands each year.
100 staff members arrested vs. 200 civilians arrested (close to)
Arthur Cofield led $11 million fraud scheme from custody using contraband phones Case detail
Arthur Cofield, a Georgia man, was convicted of leading an $11 million fraud scheme while in custody through contraband phones, and later escaped from a federal minimum-security prison camp next to FCI Jessup in Georgia.
Joey Amour Jackson sentenced to 120 months Legal fact
Co-defendant Joey Amour Jackson, aka "Apes---," was sentenced to serve a total of 120 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, to run consecutively to any state sentence.
GDC seized 3,241 cell phone chargers in CY2022 Statistic
GDC reported that during calendar year 2022, 3,241 cell phone chargers were confiscated through facility shakedowns.
3,241 cell phone chargers
Three inmates at Hancock, Valdosta, Coastal Transition Center led meth network via contraband phones Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia stated that while inmates at Hancock State Prison, Valdosta State Prison and Coastal Transition Center, three defendants allegedly obtained contraband cellular telephones and used them to lead and manage an extensive drug trafficking network trafficking in crystal methamphetamine.
Board of Corrections hoped FCC would permit jamming technology (2015) Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' October 2015 meeting minutes record a statement that the Board hoped Corrections would be able to get permission from the FCC to use jamming technology.
Over 13,000 unauthorized wireless devices denied service Statistic
Since implementation of PROscan, the system has helped identify and deny service to more than 13,000 unauthorized wireless devices, with hundreds more being identified and addressed each month.
13,000 devices
Contraband introduction is a felony punishable by up to five years Legal fact
Bryson's testimony stated that bringing contraband into a Georgia prison is a felony under Georgia law punishable by up to five years in prison.
Schwab wired $11 million to Idaho dealer for 6,106 gold coins in Cofield scheme Case detail
As part of Arthur Cofield's fraud scheme, Charles Schwab wired $11 million from the victim's funds to an Idaho precious metal dealer to buy 6,106 American Gold Eagle coins.
Jury-duty scam extorted at least 119 citizens Case detail
Two Georgia inmates orchestrated a phone scheme from behind bars, extorting at least 119 citizens by demanding payment for supposed missed jury-duty fines.
GDC FY2025 security and technology line: $59,603,230 Statistic
GDC's FY2025 Annual Fiscal Report lists $59,603,230 for a combined Safety, Security, and Technology Initiatives line covering managed access systems, drone detection, mail screening, digital forensics unit, body worn cameras, tasers, officer tablets, and offender call systems.
$59.6M USD
Source
Jay Byron Wright pleads guilty in South Carolina phone scam Case detail
Jay Byron Wright, 42, of Calhoun State Prison in Morgan, Georgia, pleaded guilty in the District of South Carolina to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, after he and other prisoners called Oregon residents using a smuggled cell phone, falsely claiming they were in contempt of court for missing jury duty and demanding payment via Green Dot money cards.
Carr: FCC blocks cell phone jamming in prisons and jails Quote
AG Chris Carr stated that the easiest way to protect the public from the harms caused by contraband cell phones is to allow for the use of cell phone jamming technology in prisons and jails, but the FCC continues to block those efforts.
Commissioner's March 2025 report covered cellphone jamming and drone mitigation Policy
The Georgia Board of Corrections' March 2025 meeting minutes record the Commissioner's Report as covering Crossover Day and legislative bill tracking at the state Capitol, cellphone jamming and drone mitigation, and Governor Brian P. Kemp signing the Amended Budget.
Largest correctional cellular interdiction deployments in North America Finding
Correctional News reports that GDC, in partnership with SDF, has implemented the largest correctional cellular interdiction deployments in North America, using SDF's PROscan technology.
7,644 contraband phones confiscated in FY2015 Statistic
GDC reported that in fiscal year 2015, a total of 7,644 contraband phones were confiscated in its facilities.
7,644 phones
Judge Steve Jones remarks at Cofield sentencing Quote
Judge Steve Jones told Cofield at sentencing, "If you had put the intelligence you have to legal and positive things, you would have been very successful in life," repeating a message he had given when accepting Cofield's guilty plea to charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
FBI investigation and prosecution team Case detail
The case was investigated by the FBI Atlanta's Columbus Resident Agency and prosecuted by Criminal Chief Leah McEwen.
Rico Raymond Cook indicted for organizing interstate jury-duty scam from prison Case detail
A federal grand jury in the Northern District of Alabama indicted Rico Raymond Cook, of Georgia, for organizing and operating an interstate jury-duty scam out of his state prison cell in Georgia. Georgia state prison system records show Cook was serving a sentence for armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, false imprisonment, aggravated assault and first-degree burglary.
8,074 contraband cell phones confiscated in Georgia in 2023 Statistic
The Georgia AG's office reported that 8,074 contraband cell phones were confiscated in Georgia in 2023.
8,074 cell phones
Four former GDC officers convicted on 15 drug counts and 7 extortion counts Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia stated that Jeremy Fluellen, Chelsey Mayweather, Tramaine Tucker, and Christopher Williams, four former Georgia Department of Corrections officers, were convicted by a federal jury after a week-long trial on fifteen counts of cocaine and methamphetamine distribution and seven counts of extortion under color of official right; prior to trial, 44 other defendants had already been convicted.
Commissioner Oliver on contraband phones and organized crime Quote
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver is quoted saying contraband phones "are connected to organized criminal activity both inside and outside the facility."
Gwinnett jewelry heists ordered from Georgia State Prison cell Case detail
Bryson's testimony described two Gwinnett jewelry store heists netting more than $1 million in stolen goods, with one customer bashed with a hammer, ordered by an inmate running a crew of four armed robbers from his cell at Georgia State Prison in Reidsville.
FBI received reports from multiple states Case detail
FBI agents in Columbus, Georgia received information from law enforcement agencies across the U.S. about wire fraud by Georgia inmates, including local law enforcement in Colorado, Florida, Virginia, Nevada, California, and Ohio, and agents discovered that inmates at Calhoun State Prison, including Jackson and Riddle, were using contraband phones.
GDC Digital Forensics Unit processed 15,702 cellphones in FY24 Statistic
GDC's FY24 Annual Report states that its Digital Forensics Unit processed and analyzed 15,702 cellphones in FY24.
15,702 cellphones
Source
Nine-count indictment against Rico Raymond Cook and two others Legal fact
A nine-count indictment charged Rico Raymond Cook, 45, of Georgia, with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and impersonating a federal officer. A federal grand jury in July also indicted Teiana Marie Taylor, 35, and Orenthial Walker, 42, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud with false information concerning jury duty.
5,482 contraband cell phones confiscated to date in 2024 Statistic
The Georgia AG's office reported that 5,482 contraband cell phones were confiscated to date in 2024.
5,482 cell phones
44 other defendants convicted before trial in GDC officer drug/extortion case Statistic
In the federal prosecution of four former GDC officers for cocaine and methamphetamine distribution and extortion, 44 other defendants had already been convicted prior to trial, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia.
44 defendants
Jury-duty scam investigation indictments: 50+ former officers, 50+ inmates/co-conspirators Case detail
Bryson's testimony stated that the GDC/FBI/U.S. Attorney's Office jury-duty-scam investigation led to federal indictments against more than 50 former GDC officers and more than 50 inmates and non-incarcerated co-conspirators.
FCC DCFO list names GDC officials for Georgia state prisons Policy
The FCC's list of Designated Correctional Facility Officials names Alan Watson, Chief of Staff, Georgia Department of Corrections, and Matthew Wolfe, Director, Georgia Department of Corrections, as DCFOs responsible for Georgia's state prisons, with Arrendale State Prison listed at 2023 Gainesville Highway, P.O. Box 709, Alto, GA 30510.
Documented losses exceed $464,920 Statistic
The scheme resulted in more than $464,920 in documented losses.
$464,920 USD
DFU identified 36 compromised staff in FY24 Statistic
GDC's FY24 Annual Report states that the Digital Forensics Unit identified 36 compromised staff members, leading to CIU containing 1,398 likely actionable intelligence items.
36 staff
Source
Cook procured cell phone inside Georgia state prison Case detail
Rico Raymond Cook, 45, of Georgia, procured a cell phone for use inside the Georgia state prison where he was serving time for armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, false imprisonment, aggravated assault and first-degree burglary.
Oliver: contraband cell phones can be deadly weapons Quote
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver stated there are hundreds of examples from across the country of how a contraband cell phone in the hands of an inmate can be used as a deadly weapon and gives them the ability to continue their criminal enterprise.
HB 1230 (Act 388) criminalizes drone delivery of contraband to inmates Legal fact
Georgia Act 388 (HB 1230) revises restrictions on operating an unmanned aircraft system near a place of incarceration; it prohibits knowingly and intentionally using a drone to provide prohibited items to inmates or to photograph or record a place of incarceration to commit a crime, allows a warden's prior approval as evidence of lack of criminal intent, and permits drones used in violation to be treated as contraband subject to law-enforcement mitigation measures.
Hancock State Prison inmate accused of helping plan murder Case detail
Bryson's testimony said a Hancock State Prison inmate, a purported gang member, is accused of helping plan the murder of a young man gunned down in November.
Nnanwubas sentenced to 8 months consecutive to state sentence Legal fact
As to Count 1, Robert Nnanwubas was sentenced to 8 months in custody to run consecutive to his state sentence, 2 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, $15,300 in restitution, and the fine was waived; Counts 2, 3, and 4 were dismissed.
Contraband cell phones used at Calhoun State Prison Case detail
Agents discovered that inmates at Calhoun State Prison, including Jackson and Riddle, were using contraband cell phones to run the jury-duty fraud scheme.
1,398 actionable intelligence items from DFU leads in FY24 Statistic
GDC's FY24 Annual Report states that Digital Forensics Unit leads resulted in the CIU containing 1,398 likely actionable intelligence items.
1,398 intelligence items
Source
Managed access system scheduled for Autry State Prison in fall 2018 Policy
GDC's 2018 Annual Report states a managed access system was scheduled to be installed in a fourth location, Autry State Prison, in fall of 2018.
Carr urges FCC to allow jamming devices, calls guidance outdated Finding
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr urged the FCC to allow the use of cell phone jamming devices in state prisons and local jails, stating the FCC's prohibition is outdated guidance that limits legitimate law enforcement tools.
HB 1230 effective July 1, 2026; amends O.C.G.A. 6-1-4 and 42-5-18 Legal fact
HB 1230, codified as Act 388, amends O.C.G.A. Sections 6-1-4 and 42-5-18 and is effective July 1, 2026.
Weekly traffic entering GDC facilities exceeds 120,000 Statistic
Bryson's testimony said traffic entering GDC facilities through front and rear gates (staff, visitors, inmate visitors and inmates) exceeds 120,000 weekly.
120,000 people per week
Calhoun inmates spoofed police numbers in jury-duty scam Case detail
As inmates at Calhoun State Prison, Riddle and Jackson used contraband cellphones and internet-based calling to spoof local police phone numbers and pose as law enforcement officers.
Stolen proceeds used for debts and drugs Case detail
The stolen proceeds from the jury-duty scheme were used by the defendants to pay off personal debts such as house and vehicle loans, as well as to purchase drugs.
FY24 drone incidents: 434; drones seized: 166 Statistic
GDC's FY24 Annual Report reports Drone Detection FY24 totals of 434 total drone incidents and 166 drones seized.
1 in 434 drone incidents vs. 166 drones seized
Source
Drone detection system evaluations at Autry and Calhoun State Prisons Policy
GDC's Annual Report states Drone Detection system evaluations began July 28, 2017 at Autry State Prison, and in December 2017 at Calhoun State Prison.
Carr joined 22-state coalition urging Congress to allow jamming Legal fact
In January 2023, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr joined a 22-state coalition of attorneys general urging Congressional leaders to pass legislation allowing states to implement a cell phone jamming system in correctional facilities.
Inmate Damon Thomas Young sentenced to 7 years for $2.8M fraud run from prison Case detail
Damon Thomas Young, 39, of Ranger, Georgia, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $30,000 restitution, with five years of the federal sentence to run consecutively to his state sentence.
Nicholas Rotunda Allen sentenced for grand jury scam Case detail
Nicholas Rotunda Allen, age 39, an inmate at Jimmy Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, to be served consecutively to his state sentence in an unrelated matter, plus restitution of $5,500 to the victim and three years of supervised release, for his role in a grand jury scam targeting a Louisiana resident.
FCC approves Hawks Ear Communications contraband interdiction system certification Policy
The FCC's Wireless Telecommunications Bureau approved the Contraband Interdiction System certification application filed by Hawks Ear Communications LLC under phase one of the Commission's two-phase CIS authorization process, under GN Docket No. 13-111.
Inmates found guilty on January 9 Legal fact
Joey Amour Jackson and Lance Riddle, both of Calhoun State Prison, were found guilty on January 9 of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, following a five-day trial that began on January 5, before Senior U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands in Albany.
12 sites had drone detection after FY24 expansion Statistic
GDC's FY24 Annual Report states that in FY24, seven facilities were equipped with drone detection devices, bringing the total number of sites with detection capabilities to 12.
12 sites vs. 7 facilities equipped in FY24
Source
FY2018 controlled shakedowns confiscated 1,271 cell phones Statistic
GDC's FY2018 Annual Report states that controlled shakedowns resulted in 1,271 cell phones confiscated, along with 4,323 weapons, 4,270.33 grams of drugs, 8,104 grams of tobacco, and 114 Green Dot cards.
1,271 cell phones
Kemp: public safety is number one priority Quote
Governor Brian Kemp stated that public safety is the number one priority of state government and that is why a comprehensive and deliberate approach has been taken to strengthening law enforcement and improving the corrections system.
Young fraudulently ordered over $2.8 million in equipment; acquired $500,000+ Case detail
Damon Thomas Young fraudulently ordered equipment worth over $2.8 million from six different equipment dealers; most dealers caught the fraud before shipment, but Young successfully acquired four pieces of equipment worth over $500,000.
Anthony Sanders and Marlita Andrews indicted for jury-duty wire fraud Case detail
A federal grand jury in the Middle District of Florida indicted Anthony Sanders, a/k/a 'Slanga,' of McRae-Helena, GA, described as an inmate in a Georgia prison, and his outside associate Marlita Andrews, of Macon, GA, on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud for defrauding a Sarasota victim of over $12,000 in a jury-duty/sheriff impersonation scam.
Scheme losses and victim count likely higher Data gap
The scheme resulted in more than $464,920 in documented losses from 119 victims nationwide, though the true number of victims is likely much higher. Many cases go unreported, are not fully investigated or are concealed by victims who are too embarrassed to come forward.
23,500+ cell phones seized in Georgia prisons 2014-2015 Statistic
From 2014 to 2015, Georgia Department of Corrections officials seized more than 23,500 cellular telephones from inside Georgia state prisons, according to a DOJ press release.
23,500 cellular telephones
U.S. Attorney Steinberg statement on Operation Night Drop indictments Quote
U.S. Attorney Jill Steinberg stated that the Operation Night Drop indictments identify networks of individuals determined to introduce into prisons controlled substances and other contraband that compromise the safety and security of individuals held in those facilities and those employed there, and further endanger members of the outside public.
Tillery: prisons are not TikTok; block cell signals Quote
Senate Appropriations Chairman Sen. Blake Tillery stated that prisons are for punishment and rehabilitation, not TikTok, and that cell signals in prisons must be blocked for employee, inmate, and public safety.
Young used contraband cell phone in 2019 to pose as AbbVie purchasing officer Case detail
While serving his state prison sentence in 2019, Damon Thomas Young used a contraband cell phone to defraud or attempt to defraud multiple heavy equipment dealers out of equipment worth millions of dollars, posing as Morgan Sylvia, a purchasing officer for AbbVie, a real biopharmaceutical company.
Richard W. Long sentenced for interstate extortion conspiracy Case detail
Richard W. Long, 50, of Ellenwood, Georgia, was sentenced to two years of imprisonment for conspiring and traveling interstate to commit extortion; conspirators who had access to cell phones while incarcerated in a Georgia prison called victims and falsely represented themselves as sheriff's deputies who had arrest warrants for the victims.
Robert Nnanwubas restitution $15,300 for Calhoun State Prison phone fraud Case detail
In the plea agreement, Robert 'Bo' Nnanwubas agreed to pay restitution to the victims of $15,300 in connection with the telephone fraud scheme run from Calhoun State Prison.
Victims threatened with arrest for missed jury duty Case detail
Victims were told they had warrants for their arrest due to missing jury duty, and the defendants, posing as police officers, told victims the warrants would be cleared through payment of a bond over the phone or they would immediately be arrested.
51 defendants charged in Autry State Prison fraud scheme Case detail
A federal indictment charged 15 current or former Autry correctional officers, 19 current or former GDOC inmates, and 17 outside individuals (51 total) with conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, or bribery in a scheme operated from inside Autry State Prison using contraband cell phones.
Operation Night Drop indictments charge 23 defendants Case detail
Two newly unsealed federal indictments charge 23 defendants in widespread conspiracies that used drones to deliver methamphetamine, marijuana, and cell phones to Georgia state prisons.
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18 defines telecommunications device broadly Legal fact
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18 defines 'telecommunications device' as a device, an apparatus associated with a device, or a component of a device that enables, or may be used to enable, communication with a person outside a place of incarceration, including a telephone, cellular telephone, personal digital assistant, transmitting radio, or computer connected or capable of being connected to a computer network.
54 individuals indicted in GDC/FBI joint investigation at Autry State Prison Case detail
54 individuals were indicted in a GDC/FBI joint investigation, including current GDC employees and former GDC officers, described by GDC as exposing a criminal network inside Autry State Prison.
Andre Deaveon Reese sentenced to 33 months and $9,797.95 restitution Case detail
Andre Deaveon Reese, 32, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced by Judge Donald E. Walter to 33 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution of $9,797.95.
Dexter Lawrence sentenced 70 months for military sextortion money laundering Case detail
Dexter Lawrence, 37, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering for his role in a scheme to extort and defraud military members operated out of the South Carolina Department of Correction.
Female victims coerced into self-conducted cavity searches Case detail
Many female victims were told that because of supposed heightened courthouse security they needed to go to a local Target store, enter a restroom, undress and record themselves performing a self-conducted cavity search before verifying their signature, and some victims subsequently received lewd and sexually explicit messages including photos of male genitalia and violent threats.
DOJ charged 75 people for prison-initiated crimes since Sept 2015 Statistic
DOJ said that since September 2015, it had charged 75 people with criminal conduct initiated from within Georgia state prisons using contraband cell phones to run fraud schemes.
75 people charged
Twelve charged in Phillips and Valdosta State Prisons contraband cell phone scheme Case detail
Two former Georgia Department of Corrections employees, four current Georgia state inmates, three recently paroled inmates, and three others were charged federally with drug trafficking, extortion, wire fraud conspiracies, wire fraud, and identity theft offenses in a scheme at Phillips and Valdosta State Prisons involving contraband cell phones.
Inmate possession of telecommunications device unlawful without authorization Legal fact
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18(c) makes it unlawful for an inmate to possess a telecommunications device, among other items, without the authorization of the warden or superintendent or his or her designee.
Former officer Curtis Drakes sentenced to 2 years for smuggling cell phones Case detail
Former Georgia correctional officer Curtis Drakes, while employed at the Mize Street Detention Facility in Pelham, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 2 years in federal prison for conspiracy to provide contraband in prison after admitting he accepted money from inmates in exchange for cell phones between about April 15, 2013 and May 16, 2013.
Reese jury-duty fraud scheme from Autry State Prison 2015-2020 Case detail
While serving time in Autry State Prison in Georgia in 2015, continuing through July 2020, Andre Deaveon Reese participated in a jury-duty fraud scheme, creating fictitious voicemail greetings identifying himself and other inmates as members of legitimate law enforcement agencies including the U.S. Marshal Service.
Dexter Lawrence sentence to follow 22-year state sentence Case detail
Judge Bruce H. Hendricks sentenced Dexter Lawrence to 70 months in federal prison followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision, to be served after Lawrence completes his 22-year state prison sentence.
Inmates impersonated real officers and used outside co-conspirators Case detail
The inmates impersonated both fictitious individuals and real law enforcement officers from the victims' local jurisdictions, and worked with co-conspirators outside prison who managed the financial accounts for the group; stolen proceeds were used to pay off personal debts such as house and vehicle loans, as well as to purchase drugs.
Autry inmates ran jury-duty scam posing as law enforcement Case detail
Inmates at Autry State Prison used contraband cell phones to call victims nationwide, falsely claiming to be law enforcement and that victims had warrants for failing to appear for jury duty, then directing victims to pay fines via pre-paid cash cards.
Mims Morris charged with wire fraud and identity theft Case detail
Mims Morris, 24, an inmate at Phillips State Prison prior to his arrest, was charged with one count of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana; two counts of conspiring to commit wire fraud; two counts of committing wire fraud; and two counts of aggravated identity theft.
Inmate possession of telecommunications device a felony, 1-5 years Legal fact
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18(d)(1) provides that an inmate who commits or attempts to commit a violation of subsection (c) shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, shall be imprisoned for not less than one nor more than five years, except that possession of a telecommunications device by an inmate held on a misdemeanor offense shall be treated as a misdemeanor.
Former officer Christopher Cox sentenced to 15 months for smuggling contraband Case detail
Former Georgia correctional officer Christopher Cox, 35, of Pelham, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Louis Sands to serve 15 months in federal prison for conspiracy to smuggle contraband into a detention facility in exchange for bribes.
Two elderly Louisiana victims of Reese scheme in August 2016 Case detail
In August of 2016, two individuals, ages 75 and 78, living in the Western District of Louisiana, became victims of Andre Deaveon Reese's jury-duty scheme.
Dexter Lawrence smuggled smartphones, posed as woman to solicit nudes Case detail
Dexter Lawrence smuggled smartphones into SCDC while serving a 22-year sentence for Armed Robbery and Carjacking, and posed as a young woman on internet dating websites to target young men in the military and solicit nude photographs.
FY2026 budget includes $13,387,475 for contraband prevention Policy
The Governor's Budget Report for FY2026 included $13,387,475 for managed access and drone detection systems to prevent contraband in facilities.
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18 makes cell phones contraband in GA prisons Legal fact
Under O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18, it is unlawful to give an incarcerated GA DOC inmate a cellular telephone and unlawful for an inmate to possess one while incarcerated, making cell phones contraband within the GA DOC prison system.
GDC employees smuggled cell phones with internet access for bribes Finding
DOJ said the conspiracy involved GDOC employees at Phillips and Valdosta State Prisons who helped smuggle cell phones and other contraband to inmates in exchange for bribe payments, and that those cell phones were often equipped with touch screens and internet access.
Employee or contractor providing contraband device faces 10-year felony sentence Legal fact
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18(d)(4) provides that an employee or contractor of the department who commits or attempts to commit a violation of subsection (b) (giving or procuring prohibited items, including a telecommunications device, for an inmate) shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of ten years.
Cox accepted money for cell phones, liquor, marijuana, and food Case detail
Christopher Cox admitted that while employed as a Correctional Officer at the Mize Street Detention Facility in Pelham, Georgia, from about April 15, 2013 to May 16, 2013, he accepted money from inmates in exchange for cell phones, liquor, marijuana and food.
Former Smith State Prison Warden Brian Adams indicted Case detail
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr announced the indictment of former Smith State Prison Warden Brian Adams, 52, of Waycross, for his alleged involvement in a contraband smuggling operation tied to inmate Nathan Weekes and a prison gang known as YSL Squad.
Nicholas Grindle sentenced 87 months for smuggling meth and phones Case detail
Former Hays State Prison correctional officer Nicholas Grindle, 32, of Summerville, Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge William M. Ray, II, to 87 months of confinement and three years of supervised release for smuggling methamphetamine and other contraband.
FY2027 budget funds five managed access analysts at $409,040 Policy
The FY2027 Governor's Budget Report GDC detail directs five managed access analysts be funded with $409,040.
Orenthial Walker indicted in $200,000 jury-duty scam Case detail
A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Georgia indicted Orenthial Walker, a Decatur, Georgia resident, on charges related to a jury-duty scam that extorted $200,000 from victims, which the release states was coordinated by prison inmates using contraband cell phones.
Anekra Artina Williams charged with methamphetamine distribution and extortion Case detail
Anekra Artina Williams, 20, of Nashville, Georgia, a GDOC guard at Valdosta State Prison, was charged with conspiring to distribute at least 50 grams of methamphetamine, distributing methamphetamine, and conspiring to interfere with commerce by extortion.
2024 amendment to O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18 effective July 1, 2024 Legal fact
The 2024 amendment to O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18, effective July 1, 2024, substituted the current provisions of paragraph (d)(2) for former provisions which had set a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of two years but not more than ten years with no portion of the mandatory minimum suspendable, and added paragraph (d)(4) covering department employees or contractors.
DroneTracker alarm at Autry State Prison led to recovery of marijuana packages Case detail
GDC reported that on December 4 at 11:53 p.m., the DroneTracker alarm, a newly piloted system, at Autry State Prison sounded; although staff did not sight a drone, officers recovered two packages containing a large amount of marijuana left behind by the drone.
Adams alleged to have buried shanks and cell phones in backyard Case detail
Adams is alleged to have knowingly concealed prison shanks and contraband cell phones by having them buried in his backyard in an attempt to obstruct an investigation into his activity and YSL Squad at Smith State Prison.
Grindle smuggled meth and phones for over a month in late 2023-early 2024 Case detail
Grindle smuggled methamphetamine and other contraband to inmates at Hays State Prison for over a month in late 2023 and early 2024, and was caught after fellow officers searched his locker and found methamphetamine and cell phones.
FY2027 budget utilizes $10,793,600 for contraband prevention Policy
The FY2027 Governor's Budget Report GDC detail utilizes existing funds of $10,793,600 for managed access and drone detection systems to prevent contraband in facilities.
Walker arrested July 2018 by FBI for prior Alabama jury-duty scam Case detail
Walker was arrested in Georgia in July 2018 by the FBI for his role in a similar jury duty scam operated out of the Northern District of Alabama; in both cases victims received calls from co-conspirators posing as U.S. Marshals Service members.
FY2020 Canine Unit contraband seizures Statistic
GDC's FY2020 Annual Report states that contraband seizures from GDC's Canine Unit included 63 lbs of marijuana, 14 lbs of methamphetamine, 0.21 lbs of cocaine, 979 lbs of tobacco, 2,356 cell phones, and 769 weapons at GDC facilities and detail sites, and that the Canine Unit's work resulted in 386 arrests.
2,356 cell phones
Drone use to deliver contraband a felony, 1-10 years Legal fact
As amended, O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18 makes it a felony to operate an unmanned aircraft system to violate the contraband-possession provisions of the Code section, punishable by imprisonment of not less than one nor more than ten years, while operating a drone to photograph/record a place of incarceration to commit a crime, or above a place of incarceration, is punishable by imprisonment of not less than five nor more than ten years.
SB 159 advanced 34-20 in Georgia Senate to make phone smuggling a felony Legal fact
A Valdosta Daily Times article reports that on Feb. 27, Georgia Senators advanced SB 159 in a 34-20 vote that would make it a felony for any person to enter guard lines at any place of incarceration with a wireless telecommunication device or standalone electronic device that stores audio or video data files.
Tattnall County Grand Jury indictment of Brian Adams May 13, 2026 Legal fact
The Attorney General's Prosecution Division presented evidence to a Tattnall County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment against Brian Adams on May 13, 2026.
Wendell Wilkins sentenced 66 months for SCDC military sextortion money laundering Case detail
Wendell Wilkins, 32, of Spartanburg, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to money laundering for his role in a scheme to extort and defraud military members operated out of the South Carolina Department of Corrections; he posed as young women on dating sites and sent nude photos to solicit nudes back, then extorted payment.
FY2026 budget includes $4,982,902 for correctional officer positions Policy
Georgia's Governor's Budget Report's Department of Corrections budget highlights include $4,982,902 for additional correctional officer positions to improve staff to offender ratios.
Reginald Perkins sentenced to 12 years 7 months for laundering $1M Case detail
Autry State Prison inmate Reginald Perkins was sentenced to 12 years and seven months in prison for laundering $1 million in fraud proceeds from a jury-duty telemarketing scam conducted by inmates at Georgia Department of Corrections prisons.
Federal program 16.844 Combatting Contraband Cell Phone Use in Prisons Legal fact
Georgia's Single Audit Report lists ALN/federal program number 16.844, titled 'Combatting Contraband Cell Phone Use in Prisons,' in its schedule of expenditures of federal awards.
Drones used in violation declared contraband, subject to seizure Legal fact
As amended, O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18 declares unmanned aircraft systems operated in violation of the subsection to be contraband, subject to seizure, removal, destruction or disposal by law enforcement at the owner's expense.
O.C.G.A. 42-5-18 requires 1-5 years for introducing contraband into prison Legal fact
GDC's website states that Georgia law O.C.G.A. 42-5-18 requires a penalty of one to five years in prison for any individual who introduces contraband, including cell phones, into a prison facility and/or provides these items to an offender.
GDC Digital Forensics Unit processed 10,083 cellphones in FY22 Statistic
GDC's FY2022 Annual Report states that during FY22 the Digital Forensics Unit processed and analyzed 10,083 cellphones.
10,083 cellphones
Source
Wilkins traced to $74,000 from at least 25 military victims Statistic
Investigators traced at least $74,000 in extorted funds received by Wendell Wilkins from at least 25 military victims between February 2016 and January 2018.
$74,000 vs. 25 military victims
Amended FY2025 budget includes $35,027,675 for contraband prevention Policy
The Governor's Recommendation for Amended FY 2025 included $35,027,675 for managed access and drone detection systems to prevent contraband in facilities.
Perkins, 36, of Atlanta, sentenced with 3 years supervised release Case detail
Reginald Perkins, 36, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced to 12 years, seven months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, after being convicted on March 22, 2016, having pleaded guilty.
More than 45 GDC officers charged in seven federal indictments Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia stated that more than 45 current and former Georgia Department of Corrections officers and contract correctional officers were charged in seven separate federal indictments with smuggling contraband into prisons and accepting bribe payments in exchange for providing protection for drug deals that were part of a federal undercover operation.
GDC Cell-Sense Device blocks contraband cell phones Policy
GDC's New Technologies in Corrections fact sheet states a Cell-Sense Device prohibits unlawfully possessed cell phones from operating within a facility.
Source
Jacob Garner sentenced to 24 months for pandemic unemployment fraud from jail Case detail
Jacob Garner, 34, of Milledgeville, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 24 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release by Chief U.S. District Judge Marc T. Treadwell on Feb. 9 after pleading guilty to theft of United States government funds, with his federal sentence to run consecutively to the parole revocation sentence he was then serving.
GDC Digital Forensics Unit processed 15,592 cellphones in FY23 Statistic
GDC's FY2023 Annual Report states that the Digital Forensics Unit's processing and analysis included 15,592 cellphones.
15,592 cellphones
Source
SCDC sextortion scheme: 300+ military victims, $350,000+ loss, suicides Statistic
In total, more than 300 military members throughout the United States were victims of the sextortion scheme operated out of SCDC, and the amount of loss exceeded $350,000; several military members committed suicide after falling victim to the extortion scheme.
300 military victims vs. 350,000 dollars loss
GDC seized over 15,500 cell phones and 150 drones in 2024 Statistic
Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr's office states that in 2024 the Georgia Department of Corrections seized and processed over 15,500 cell phones and more than 150 drones.
15,500 cell phones
Taylor and Walker arrested on N.D. Ala. jury-duty conspiracy indictment Case detail
The FBI arrested Teiana Marie Taylor and Orenthial Walker, both of Decatur, Georgia, on a one-count indictment in the Northern District of Alabama charging them with conspiring to commit wire fraud using false information concerning jury duty.
Phase three of GDC-FBI operation exposed staff corruption at nine prisons Case detail
GDC's press release states that phase three of the two-year joint operation between GDC and the FBI exposed staff corruption involving smuggling contraband of liquor, tobacco, and cell phones into correctional facilities, with the latest round of arrests involving employees from eight GDC state prisons and one GEO Group prison, including Autry, Baldwin, Dodge, Dooly, Georgia Diagnostic and Classification, and Hancock.
GDC Cellular Phone Access Management technology Policy
GDC's 'New Technologies in Corrections' fact sheet describes a Cellular Phone Access Management technology, stating the Cell-Sense Device prohibits unlawfully possessed cell phones from operating within a facility.
Source
Garner used jail communications to orchestrate fraudulent UI/PUA claims Case detail
Garner was an inmate at the Baldwin County Jail in 2020 when a Baldwin County detective located messages between Garner and his then-girlfriend and co-defendant Lindsey Garner (née Quinton), 32, of Milledgeville, discussing filing fraudulent unemployment insurance/pandemic unemployment assistance claims to the Georgia Department of Labor.
8,132 cell phones confiscated in FY2014 Statistic
GDC's FY2014 Annual Report states that 8,132 cell phones were confiscated.
8,132 cell phones
15 defendants charged in SCDC prison-phone fraud/extortion/money laundering scheme Case detail
U.S. Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced that 15 individuals from South Carolina and North Carolina were charged in federal court with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Extortion, and Money Laundering.
GDC seized more than 150 drones in 2024 Statistic
In 2024, the Georgia Department of Corrections seized and processed more than 150 drones.
150 drones
Nicholas Rotunda Allen pleads guilty in grand jury scam Case detail
Nicholas Rotunda Allen, age 39, an inmate at Jimmy Autry State Prison in Pelham, Georgia, pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Louisiana to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for his role in a grand jury fraud scam victimizing a Louisiana resident.
GDC seized over 15,500 cell phones and 150 drones in prior year Statistic
The Georgia AG's office reported that the Georgia Department of Corrections seized and processed over 15,500 cell phones and more than 150 drones in the prior year.
15,500 cell phones vs. 150 drones
GDC Office of Professional Standards reported FY2023 contraband and drone data to Board Policy
Board of Corrections June 2023 minutes record that the Office of Professional Standards presented highlights including contraband seized for Fiscal Year 2023, contraband facilitators (phones and drones received), and drones detected and recovered.
Source
Three Riverbend correctional officers convicted of trading with inmates Case detail
Natashia Seals, Tierra Harrison and Shanell Brown, who all worked at Riverbend Correctional Facility in Milledgeville, were found guilty of trading with inmates, making a false statement and violation of oath by a public officer.
Five SCDC inmates smuggled smartphones, ran military fraud scheme 2015-2017 Case detail
The indictment alleges that from at least 2015 through 2017, five named South Carolina Department of Corrections inmates smuggled smartphones into prison and, using Internet access on the smartphones, orchestrated a scheme to defraud members of the United States Military.
FY2016 contraband seizures: 8,222 cell phones Statistic
GDC's Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Report states that FY 2016 contraband seizures/incidents totals were 8,222 cell phones found.
8,222 cell phones
GDC: family-targeted release-fee calls are fraudulent, inmate-run Finding
GDC states that fraudulent calls demanding payment for an incarcerated loved one's release are believed to be orchestrated by inmates using contraband cell phones.
Carr: jamming would be a game-changer for public safety Quote
AG Chris Carr stated that Georgia cannot allow another innocent Georgian to lose their life at the hands of a violent inmate with a contraband cell phone, and that jamming the signal of these contraband cell phones would be a game-changer for public safety.
GDC drone incident and contraband recovery data presented to Board in October 2021 Policy
GDC's Board of Corrections October 2021 minutes record that the Director of GDC's Office of Professional Standards discussed drone incidents, drone sightings by month and by region, top three drone sightings by facilities, and Calendar Year 2021 contraband recovered including confirmed drone drops and drones recovered in contraband drops.
Baldwin County jury convicts three officers in drug and cellphone smuggling scheme Case detail
A Baldwin County jury found three former correctional officers at Riverbend Correctional Facility in Milledgeville guilty of trading with inmates in a trial that exposed a scheme to smuggle drugs and cellphones into the privately operated state prison.
Cash-bond scam run from prison March 2022-April 2024; phones delivered by drone Case detail
The men conducted the cash-bond scam from March 2022 to April 2024, targeting victims across several states, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Southern District of Iowa; cell phones were delivered to the prison using a drone, enabling inmates to make fraudulent calls.
FY2016 contraband seizures: 1,191 drug seizures Statistic
GDC's Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Report states that FY 2016 contraband seizures/incidents totals were 1,191 drug seizures.
1,191 drug seizures
GDC advocates federal action for cell phone signal jamming Policy
GDC states that because contraband, specifically cell phones, presents a serious danger within correctional systems nationwide, GDC and its counterparts continuously advocate for cell phone signal jamming, which requires federal action.
GDC Board March 2026 minutes: Managed Access system discussed Policy
GDC's March 2026 Board of Corrections minutes record that Commissioner Oliver discussed the Amended Fiscal Year 2026 Budget being signed and the Managed Access system among Commissioner's Report topics.
Commissioner Oliver: technology deployments in corrections are not one-time events Finding
GDC Commissioner Oliver described contraband-interdiction vendor relationships as needing partners willing to invest time and resources, saying correctional agencies need partners that help because technology deployments in corrections are not one-time events.
Operation Ghost Guard found corruption in 11 of 35 state facilities Finding
The FBI's investigation into Operation Ghost Guard found criminal and corrupt activities in 11 of Georgia's 35 state corrections facilities.
Cash-bond scam sentences: Weatherspoon 130 months, Dieudonne 36, Brazil 51, Scorza 72 Case detail
Weatherspoon received a sentence of 130 months, Dieudonne 36 months, Brazil 51 months, and Scorza 72 months in federal prison, each to also serve a three-year term of supervised release.
FY2016 contraband seizures: 6,799 weapons Statistic
GDC's Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Report states that FY 2016 contraband seizures/incidents totals were 6,799 weapons confiscated.
6,799 weapons
Commissioner Oliver: zero-tolerance policy for those jeopardizing public safety Quote
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver stated the department maintains a zero-tolerance policy for individuals who jeopardize its mission of public safety, whether civilian or inmate, in connection with Operation Night Drop.
Drone smuggling conspiracy used six drones, September 2023 to May 2026 Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Georgia stated that beginning in September 2023 until May 2026, the defendants allegedly engaged in a conspiracy to use six drones in their scheme.
Guards earned $500-$1,000 per smuggled cell phone Statistic
Corrupt Georgia prison guards in Operation Ghost Guard typically earned $500 to $1,000 for smuggling a single cell phone to a prisoner.
$500.00 vs. 1,000 dollars per phone
FY2016 contraband throw-overs: 110 incidents Statistic
GDC's Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Report states that FY 2016 contraband seizures/incidents totals were 110 incidents of contraband Throw-Overs.
110 incidents
Smith SP drone crash led agents to nearby residence Case detail
GDC reported that Smith State Prison Warden Beasley and Southeast Region OPS agents observed a drone while exiting the facility in the early hours of August 2nd, monitored its flight to a nearby residence, and observed it crash into the roof.
Twelve indicted in largest federal drone smuggling prosecution Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Georgia stated that an indictment was unsealed charging twelve individuals in a conspiracy using drones to smuggle contraband, such as drugs and cell phones, into ten prisons across eight states, including Georgia, which it called the largest federal prosecution to date involving coordinated drone smuggling into prisons.
More than 23,500 contraband phones seized 2014-2015 Statistic
Between 2014 and 2015, more than 23,500 contraband phones were seized throughout Georgia prisons, which house 50,000 inmates.
23,500 phones
FY2016 contraband arrests: 226 individuals Statistic
GDC's Fiscal Year 2016 Annual Report states that FY 2016 contraband seizures/incidents totals were 226 individuals arrested for contraband.
226 individuals
United States v. Alphonsus: five defendants named in docket Case detail
The docket in United States v. Alphonsus lists five defendants: Jordan C. Alphonsus, Joey Amour Jackson, Ylijira Anoinise Jackson, Sardaria Copelin, and Lance David Riddle.
120 inmates charged, 362 civilians arrested for contraband deliveries through June 2025 Statistic
At a December legislative hearing at the Atlanta Capitol, Matthew Wolfe from the Georgia Department of Corrections said that for the year through June 2025 there were 120 inmates charged and 362 civilians arrested in connection with contraband deliveries, and that civilian involvement remains the most common threat vector, with throwovers and drone drops continuing to be the primary method used to infiltrate GDC's institutions.
120 inmates charged vs. 362 civilians arrested
Approximately 130 subjects indicted in Operation Ghost Guard Statistic
FBI Special Agent Dan Odom said the Operation Ghost Guard investigation identified and indicted approximately 130 subjects.
130 subjects
Smith State Prison drone incident contraband recovered Case detail
GDC's press release about an August 2023 incident at Smith State Prison, in which staff observed a drone, lists contraband recovered beyond the guard lines including 1508 grams marijuana, 10,100 grams tobacco, 3 drones, 4 drone controllers, and 1 loaded Taurus .357 magnum handgun.
Alphonsus arrested in Northern District of Georgia Case detail
The docket in United States v. Alphonsus records that Jordan C. Alphonsus was arrested in the Northern District of Georgia.
GDC Board April 2025 minutes: Oliver attended D.C. cell phone jamming press conference Policy
GDC's Board of Corrections minutes record that Commissioner Oliver had participated in a press conference in Washington D.C. regarding Cell Phone Jamming.
Nearly 50 GDC officers indicted for accepting bribes Case detail
Nearly 50 former and current Georgia Department of Corrections officers were indicted on the day the FBI announced Operation Ghost Guard results, for accepting bribes in exchange for protecting what they believed to be drug shipments.
Smith State Prison drone incident: 3 drones and 4 controllers Case detail
GDC reported recovering 3 drones and 4 drone controllers in the Smith State Prison incident, along with 1508 grams of marijuana and 10,100 grams of tobacco.
Joint motion to apply Alphonsus seized funds to restitution Case detail
The United States and Jordan C. Alphonsus filed a joint motion asking the court to apply funds seized from Alphonsus toward his restitution obligation.
Inmate used contraband phone to solicit child sexual abuse material, sentenced to nearly 20 years Case detail
The state attorneys general's letter to the FCC states that in Georgia, an inmate eligible for parole in 2023 used a contraband cell phone to solicit child sexual abuse material and to arrange a sexual encounter with an individual thought to be a minor, and was later sentenced to nearly 20 years in federal prison for online child solicitation.
Source
15 officers, 19 civilians, 19 inmates indicted month before Ghost Guard announcement Case detail
The month before the Operation Ghost Guard announcement, 15 corrections officers, 19 civilians, and 19 inmates were indicted, and a large amount of contraband including drugs, weapons and cell phones was recovered.
Alphonsus did not go to trial with Jackson and Riddle Case detail
Jordan C. Alphonsus did not go to trial with co-defendants Joey Amour Jackson and Lance David Riddle, per the court's modification of the trial exhibit list docket text.
Operation Ghost Guard origin: kidnapping plot from contraband phone Case detail
Operation Ghost Guard began in May 2014 after a kidnapping plot set in motion by a prisoner serving a life sentence in North Carolina who used a contraband phone to seek revenge on the prosecutor who helped convict him, enlisting Atlanta gang members to kidnap the prosecutor's father.
Jury-duty scam method described by FBI Finding
In the Georgia jury-duty scam described by the FBI, inmates called victims, impersonated law enforcement, claimed the victims had failed to appear for jury duty, and told them they could either be arrested on warrants or pay fines to have the warrants dismissed, with victims instructed to purchase pre-paid cash cards and provide the account numbers.
Damon Thomas Young sentenced to seven years for prison-run fraud Case detail
Damon Thomas Young, a Georgia inmate who was serving time for assaulting a police officer, was sentenced to seven years in prison after using a contraband cell phone in 2019 to pose as a purchasing officer for a pharmaceutical company and order heavy equipment.
Young convicted of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft Case detail
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Atlanta said Damon Thomas Young was sentenced to seven years in prison, having been convicted of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in August.
Young ordered nearly $3 million in equipment, acquired over $500,000 Case detail
Damon Thomas Young ordered nearly $3 million of heavy equipment using the scheme, but prosecutors say he only managed to acquire four pieces worth over $500,000, which the Gordon County Sheriff's Office recovered.
Anthony Sanders indicted January 8, 2025 for jury duty scam Case detail
Anthony Sanders, a Georgia inmate, and an accomplice were indicted on January 8, 2025 on charges related to a jury duty scam in which Sanders called a victim, a 30-year nurse, posing as a Sarasota, Florida sheriff threatening arrest for failure to show up for jury duty and demanding a payment of more than $12,000.
Russell Tafron Weatherspoon convicted of multistate scam 2022-2024 Case detail
Russell Tafron Weatherspoon was convicted of masterminding a multistate scam between March 2022 and April 2024 in which he and other co-conspirators called victims nationwide posing as local law enforcement officers, using an app to spoof the phone numbers of legitimate law enforcement agencies.
Sources
79 cited sources backing this research.
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Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Alan Watson
[person]
Andre Deaveon Reese
[person]
Anekra Artina Williams
[person]
Anthony Sanders
[person]
Arrendale State Prison
[facility]
Arthur Cofield
[person]
Autry State Prison
[facility]
Baldwin County Jail
[facility]
Baldwin State Prison
[facility]
Blake Tillery
[person]
Brian Adams
[person]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Brian P. Kemp
[person]
Calhoun State Prison
[facility]
Charles Schwab
[organization]
Chelsey Mayweather
[person]
Chris Carr
[person]
Christopher Cox
[person]
Christopher Williams
[person]
Coastal Transition Center
[facility]
Commissioner Bryson
[person]
Commissioner Oliver
[person]
Curtis Drakes
[person]
Damon Thomas Young
[person]
Dan Odom
[person]
Dexter Lawrence
[person]
Digital Forensics Unit
[program]
Dodge State Prison
[facility]
Dooly State Prison
[facility]
DroneTracker
[program]
FCI Jessup
[facility]
Federal Bureau of Investigation
[organization]
Federal Communications Commission
[organization]
GEO Group
[organization]
Georgia Board of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison
[facility]
Georgia State Prison
[facility]
Gordon County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
Hancock State Prison
[facility]
Hawks Ear Communications LLC
[organization]
Hays State Prison
[facility]
HB 1230
[legislation]
Homer Bryson
[person]
Jackson
[person]
Jacob Garner
[person]
Jay Byron Wright
[person]
Jeremy Fluellen
[person]
Jill Steinberg
[person]
Jimmy Autry State Prison
[facility]
Joey Amour Jackson
[person]
Jordan C. Alphonsus
[person]
Lance David Riddle
[person]
Lance Riddle
[person]
Leah McEwen
[person]
Lindsey Garner
[person]
Marlita Andrews
[person]
Matthew Wolfe
[person]
Mims Morris
[person]
Mize Street Detention Facility
[facility]
Natashia Seals
[person]
Nathan Weekes
[person]
Nicholas Grindle
[person]
Nicholas Rotunda Allen
[person]
O.C.G.A. § 42-5-18
[legislation]
Operation Ghost Guard
[operation]
Operation Night Drop
[operation]
Orenthial Walker
[person]
Phillips State Prison
[facility]
PROscan
[program]
Reginald Perkins
[person]
Richard W. Long
[person]
Rico Raymond Cook
[person]
Riddle
[person]
Riverbend Correctional Facility
[facility]
Robert Nnanwubas
[person]
Russell Tafron Weatherspoon
[person]
Sardaria Copelin
[person]
SB 159
[legislation]
SDF
[organization]
Shanell Brown
[person]
Smith State Prison
[facility]
South Carolina Department of Corrections
[organization]
Steve Jones
[person]
Tattnall County Grand Jury
[organization]
Teiana Marie Taylor
[person]
Tierra Harrison
[person]
Tramaine Tucker
[person]
Tyrone Oliver
[person]
U.S. Attorney's Office
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of South Carolina
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Alabama
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia
[organization]
U.S. Attorney's Office in Atlanta
[organization]
U.S. Department of Justice
[organization]
United States v. Alphonsus
[case]
United States v. Nnanwubas
[case]
W. Louis Sands
[person]
Wendell Wilkins
[person]
Wilcox State Prison
[facility]
Wireless Containment System
[program]
Ylijira Anoinise Jackson
[person]
YSL Squad
[operation]