A man from Southwest Georgia has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for his involvement in methamphetamine trafficking. Justin Harris Vinson, aged 42, of Warwick, Georgia, admitted to distributing up to three kilograms of methamphetamine weekly during the COVID-19 pandemic on behalf of a Mexican drug cartel. He was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on June 4.
Vinson's co-defendant, Shana Rae Black, aged 34 from Cordele, Georgia, received a sentence of 168 months followed by five years of supervised release earlier this year after pleading guilty to distribution charges.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker emphasized the commitment to bringing repeat offenders who distribute illegal drugs to justice: "Repeat convicted felons who weaponize themselves and distribute hazardous, illegal drugs in our communities will be brought to justice."
Jae W. Chung from the DEA Atlanta Division stated: "Drug traffickers drive addiction and destroy communities," highlighting their efforts against such criminals.
The investigation involved various law enforcement agencies including the FBI and GBI. Paul Brown from FBI Atlanta noted the prosecution's role in stopping dangerous drugs: "This prosecution closes a pipeline for dangerous drugs flowing into the streets of Southwest Georgia."
GBI Director Chris Hosey affirmed their dedication alongside state and local agencies: "We are committed to holding those who traffic methamphetamine accountable."
Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock praised collaborative efforts stating: "This case highlights our dedication to safeguarding the community and demonstrates the powerful results we achieve through collaboration."
Lee County Sheriff Reggie Rachals also commended law enforcement cooperation saying: “We are proud of the cooperation demonstrated by all to ensure these repeat offenders are held accountable at the federal level.”
Court documents revealed that an undercover operation involving confidential informants led authorities to both Vinson and Black through various transactions over several months. Methamphetamine sales were monitored closely by agents leading up to arrests made in late 2022 and early 2023.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted this case with support from multiple law enforcement bodies including GBI, DEA, Crisp County Sheriff's Office, FBI, and Lee County Sheriff's Office.
