A Macon man, Johnifer Dernard Barnwell, also known as "Whoop" or "Malixe," has been sentenced to life in prison plus five additional years following his conviction for armed drug trafficking and escape from custody. The sentencing took place after Barnwell's trial concluded with a guilty verdict on October 2, 2023. He was found guilty of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin; possession with intent to distribute these substances along with cocaine and cocaine base; and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal imposed the sentences on March 11, stating that there is no parole within the federal system. Additionally, Barnwell received the statutory maximum sentence of five years for escaping from custody on July 18, 2024.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker commented on the case: “Despite his attempts to escape justice, Johnifer Barnwell has been held accountable for his criminal actions.” She commended law enforcement officers for their bravery in capturing Barnwell and preventing the distribution of dangerous drugs.
Senior Supervisory Special Agent Robert Gibbs of FBI Macon highlighted the impact gangs have on communities: “Gangs wreak havoc on local residents, engaging in violence and peddling dangerous drugs that devastate communities and families." He emphasized the importance of cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
U.S. Marshal Stephen D. Lynn praised professional partnerships among agencies: “The successful resolution of this case demonstrates the importance of our professional partnerships.”
Bibb County Sheriff David Davis remarked on the sentence: “This sentence illustrates the penalty that repeat and dangerous felons face when they continue to cause havoc in our community.”
Barnwell escaped from Bibb County LEC on October 16, 2023 but was recaptured by FBI agents and Bibb County Sheriff’s Office deputies in Augusta on November 12, 2023. At his capture location, authorities allegedly found him in possession of firearms including an AK-47 rifle and large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
The investigation involved collaboration between FBI agents, USMS personnel, and Bibb County Sheriff’s Office deputies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom prosecuted the case.
