Peach Tree Times

Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp has expressed his state's firm stance against illegal activities such as drug trafficking and contraband circulation within correctional facilities. He conveyed gratitude towards Commissioner Oliver, the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) staff, and law enforcement for their role in halting such operations.

"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," said P. Kemp, according to Lieutenant Governor of Georgia. "I want to thank Commissioner Oliver, the hardworking men and women of the GDC, and all law enforcement who worked to shut these operations down and help keep both Georgians and our correctional facilities safe."

Governor Kemp's statement came in the wake of a coordinated operation involving the GDC and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Gang Task Force. This operation led to the execution of search and arrest warrants at two locations in the Metro Atlanta area, effectively dismantling a criminal enterprise involved in smuggling contraband into GDC facilities. According to a press release by the Office of the Governor, this investigation, dubbed "Operation Skyhawk," revealed the use of drones to smuggle contraband into GDC facilities.

GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver said, "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," according to a press release by the Office of the Governor.

Kemp, a native of Athens, Georgia, took office as the state's 83rd governor in 2019. His governance approach emphasizes his small business background. The Office of the Governor states that his re-election in 2022 was based on his administration's economic record and promises to address inflation, enhance public safety, and improve education through various legislative efforts.