Peach Tree Times

Governor Brian P. Kemp of Georgia has announced the successful outcome of a joint investigation between the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Gang Task Force. The operation, named “Operation Skyhawk,” led to the dismantling of a sophisticated, multi-state criminal enterprise involved in contraband trafficking within GDC facilities.

In a statement, Governor Kemp emphasized the state's zero-tolerance policy towards criminal activities that jeopardize community safety, stating, “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.”

Commissioner Tyrone Oliver of the GDC commended the efforts of law enforcement personnel, stating, “The success of ‘Operation Skyhawk’ should be a reminder to anyone – inside or outside our prisons – that we have zero tolerance and will take swift action against those who threaten the safe operations of our facilities and the safety of the public.”

The investigation uncovered the use of drones to introduce contraband into GDC facilities, resulting in the arrest of 150 individuals, including eight GDC employees who were terminated immediately. The suspects face over 1,000 criminal charges related to contraband introduction, drug trafficking, and possession of firearms. Many of them are expected to face Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) charges and charges related to participation in criminal gang activity.

Items seized during the operation included drones, weapons, contraband cell phones, drugs, and other illegal items, with a combined street value exceeding $7 million. Commissioner Oliver highlighted the wide-reaching impact of the criminal enterprise, suggesting that other states may also be affected.

The success of “Operation Skyhawk” was made possible through the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement partners, who played a crucial role in intercepting contraband drops and conducting traffic stops related to the criminal activities.

The Georgia Department of Corrections, responsible for supervising approximately 47,000 state prisoners, is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with around 9,000 employees. For more information on the GDC, individuals can visit the official website or contact the department directly.