A Columbus resident, Tommie Mullins Jr., has admitted to leading a significant drug trafficking conspiracy under Operation Sweet Silence. Mullins, also known as "TJ," "Bo," and "Mini," pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute. As part of a binding plea agreement, he will serve 20 years in prison followed by ten years of supervised release.
Nine other individuals involved in the operation have also entered guilty pleas. Among them are Trenton Thomas and Trenton Clemons, both facing maximum life sentences for similar charges. Adrian Palmer, Darius Jenkins, Christopher Hill, Corey Turner, Anthony Champion, Javonta Paden, and Adrian Pleasants have pleaded guilty to various charges related to drug distribution and face substantial prison terms.
The sentencing for Mullins and his co-defendants is set for August 7. There is no parole available in the federal system.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker emphasized the threat posed by armed criminal organizations trafficking methamphetamine and other drugs: “Our office is dedicated to collaborating with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to dismantle criminal organizations and hold their associates accountable.”
FBI Atlanta Special Agent Paul Brown highlighted the community impact: “Illicit drugs devastate our communities.” Jae W. Chung from the DEA added that they are using all resources available against such criminal activities.
Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman remarked on the importance of collaboration: “There is strength in collaboration when we combine our resources.”
Operation Sweet Silence was an extensive investigation conducted from August 2022 until May 2024 into illegal activities by the Zohannon gang involving armed drug trafficking. Mullins coordinated multiple transactions with co-conspirators in Columbus and suppliers elsewhere.
Federal agents intercepted communications revealing that Mullins used his residence as a primary distribution point for drugs like methamphetamine and marijuana. The operation involved coordination with a major supplier based in Seattle.
The case forms part of Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and eliminating transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). The investigation was led by FBI, DEA, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office with support from various local law enforcement agencies across several states.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Veronica Hansis along with Trial Attorney Matthew P. Mattis are prosecuting this case for the government.
