Ryan K. Buchanan, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia
Gilberto Contreras has admitted guilt to charges of possessing nearly 1,000 pounds of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The case highlights a significant effort by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in the region.
"Contreras distributed massive quantities of dangerous drugs that posed a significant threat to the health and safety of our communities," stated Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. He expressed gratitude for the work done by federal and local law enforcement partners in addressing this issue.
Jae Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, remarked on the agency's commitment: "This case represents the continued commitment of the DEA to identify and hold accountable those who engage in the distribution of dangerous drugs, such as methamphetamine."
Details presented in court revealed that on July 2, 2024, DEA special agents were informed about a local trafficker selling multiple kilograms of methamphetamine. This led them to Clayton County, Georgia, where they encountered Contreras. A subsequent vehicle stop uncovered approximately 44 pounds of methamphetamine. Further searches at Contreras’s residence and backyard in Ellenwood resulted in finding around 915 pounds more and $40,000 in cash.
Gilberto Contreras, aged 54 from Ellenwood, Georgia, is set for sentencing on May 13, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash Jr.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Clayton County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwayne A. Brown Jr. is leading the prosecution.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages parents and children to educate themselves about drug dangers at www.justthinktwice.gov.
For additional information or inquiries contact: USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. More details can be found at http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.