A Georgia man has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for armed fentanyl trafficking. Dwan Maurice Hewlett, also known as "LA," was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Tilman E. "Tripp" Self III on July 7. Hewlett, 41, from Hull, Georgia, was found guilty of six counts 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 a drug trafficking crime; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney William R. "Will" Keyes stated: “Armed career offenders distributing fentanyl in the Middle District of Georgia will face federal prosecution, which carries stiff penalties and no possibility of parole.” He emphasized the collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in addressing dangerous illegal substances.
Athens-Clarke County Police Chief Jerry Saulters commented on the case's significance: "Cases like these exemplify the value of partnerships between local, state and federal agencies." He praised his officers and partnering agencies for their work in keeping violent criminals out of the community.
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown remarked on the efforts made to remove dangerous criminals from the streets: “The FBI works tirelessly to get dangerous criminals like Dwan Hewlett and the drugs he sold off the streets of Georgia.”
Acting Special Agent in Charge Jae W. Chung from DEA’s Atlanta Division highlighted how drug traffickers exploit vulnerable community members for profit: “The success of this investigation is proof that those destroying our communities with drugs and violence will be held accountable.”
Court documents reveal that Athens-Clarke County Police Department detectives used a confidential informant to arrange a purchase of fentanyl from Hewlett at an Athens gas station. Upon arrival at the location, police officers apprehended Hewlett after he attempted to flee following their commands. A search revealed drugs including fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, as well as a .380 pistol under his seat.
Hewlett's criminal history includes three prior convictions for serious drug offenses and firearm possession by a convicted felon.
The investigation involved multiple agencies including Northeast Georgia Regional Drug Task Force, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, FBI Athens Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, DEA, and ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison prosecuted the case.
