Macon Smuggling Ring Used Drones to Deliver Contraband to Federal Prisons
Macon — An alleged smuggling ring is accused of airdropping drugs, cigarettes, cellphones, weapons, and other contraband into 10 federal prisons across eight Southern and Middle Atlantic states. The operation reportedly involved the use of large-payload drones to deliver these items to federal lockups in Atlanta, Jesup, and various prisons in Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. William R. "Will" Keyes, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, stated that 12 individuals were implicated in this sophisticated and sprawling operation. This crackdown is noted to be the largest federal prosecution of its kind aimed at curbing the flow of contraband into prisons. The accused allegedly operated from a former daycare center in Macon, which they referred to as "the Lab." Keyes emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the threats posed to prison safety and the intended population. The indictments were announced on Wednesday, marking a significant step in addressing contraband issues within the prison system.
