Nicholas Grindle has been sentenced for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and bribery. During his sentencing, Grindle was criticized for requesting leniency based on false claims of being injured in combat during his military service.

"Grindle violated his oath of office by smuggling drugs into a prison he swore to protect," stated Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. "He then compounded this crime by lying about his military service."

Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Division, expressed concern over Grindle's actions: "It’s alarming to think that this prison guard was brazen enough to distribute dangerous drugs and other contraband. He must now face the consequences."

Tyrone Oliver, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections, emphasized the agency's stance: "The GDC does not tolerate actions of individuals who choose to bring discredit to the values of our agency and put their fellow officers at risk. We appreciate the support of our federal partners in ensuring that justice will be served, and we are proud of those officers involved who were diligent in stopping further introduction of dangerous contraband into one of our facilities."

According to court information presented by Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, while working as a guard at Hays State Prison, Grindle smuggled methamphetamine and other contraband for over a month between late 2023 and early 2024. Fellow officers discovered methamphetamine, cell phones, and other contraband in his locker intended for distribution within the prison. Financial records revealed he received bribes from inmates for bringing these items into the facility.

Grindle had previously served in Afghanistan with the United States Army but falsely claimed during sentencing that he had been injured in combat there. A review of military records and letters from former unit members confirmed these claims were untrue.

Grindle, aged 32 from Summerville, Georgia, received an 87-month confinement sentence followed by three years supervised release from United States District Judge William M. Ray II after pleading guilty on November 21, 2024.

The case was investigated by multiple agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Calvin A. Leipold III.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office encourages parents and children to learn about drug dangers at www.justthinktwice.gov.

For more information contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office via email or phone as provided above.