Peter D. Leary, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia
A Georgia man, Dwan Maurice Hewlett, also known as "LA," has been found guilty on multiple counts related to armed fentanyl trafficking. The verdict was delivered this week in Athens-Clarke County. Hewlett, aged 41 and hailing from Hull, Georgia, was convicted of six charges, including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine; possession with intent to distribute each of these substances; possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The trial commenced on February 24 and concluded on the evening of February 26 under the supervision of U.S. District Judge Tilman E. "Tripp" Self III. Hewlett is classified as a federal career offender and faces up to life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years. The sentencing date is yet to be scheduled by the Court, which does not offer parole.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker stated: "Career offenders arming themselves and pushing fentanyl into our communities will find their criminal cases in federal court." She commended local and federal law enforcement for their efforts in bringing repeat criminals like Hewlett to justice.
Athens-Clarke County Police Chief Jerry Saulters emphasized the importance of cooperation between various agencies: "Cases like these exemplify the value of partnerships between local, state and federal agencies." He expressed pride in his officers' work alongside partner agencies to remove dangerous elements from the community.
FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Brian Ozden commented on the FBI's commitment: “The FBI works tirelessly to get dangerous criminals like Dwan Hewlett and the drugs he sold off the streets of Georgia.”
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Atlanta Division, remarked: “Drug traffickers exploit vulnerable members of our community to generate profits,” highlighting that those who damage communities with drugs will face accountability.
Court documents reveal that Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD) detectives utilized a confidential informant to set up a purchase meeting with Hewlett at an Athens gas station on Danielsville Road. When officers moved in for arrest after identifying themselves clearly as police, Hewlett attempted escape but was apprehended after a brief chase.
A search uncovered substantial quantities of illegal drugs along with firearms in Hewlett's vehicle. His cell phones contained numerous drug-related messages. Hewlett has an extensive criminal history involving serious drug offenses and illegal firearm possession.
This case was handled by multiple agencies including the Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force and ACCPD, supported by FBI Athens Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, DEA, and ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is leading prosecution efforts for the government.