A former correctional officer cadet has pleaded guilty in federal court to attempting to smuggle more than half a kilogram of pure methamphetamine into Dooly State Prison. Julius Deshawn Williams Jr., 29, from Bonaire, Georgia, admitted to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine before U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on December 1. Williams could face up to life in prison, and a sentencing date will be set by the court. Federal sentences do not allow for parole.
“Highly addictive, illegal drugs inside a prison only increase the potential for chaos and violence for everyone on the inside, and can never be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes. “Correctional officers have a vital role in ensuring community safety. We appreciate the collaboration across all levels of law enforcement to protect people.”
GDC Commissioner Tyrone Oliver commented on the risks posed by contraband: “Contraband in the hands of inmates gives them the ability to continue their criminal enterprise, so the efforts of our dedicated officers in stopping those who attempt to introduce these items is paramount in our commitment to public safety. We are pleased to see that justice has been served on this individual for his role in jeopardizing the safe and secure operations of our facilities.”
Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, highlighted interagency cooperation: “Keeping narcotics out of our correctional facilities requires strong, united efforts across agencies. This guilty plea is the result of that collaboration. DEA will continue to stand with our federal, state and local partners to ensure that anyone attempting to introduce dangerous drugs into a prison faces the full force of the law.”
Court documents show that Williams was still undergoing training as a cadet at Dooly State Prison when he was stopped during a routine security check on June 24, 2024. Officers from the Georgia Department of Corrections found four packages containing methamphetamine hidden in his pants and another four packages along with a pistol during a search of his vehicle. Williams acknowledged he intended to deliver the drugs—640 grams of methamphetamine with 100% purity—to an inmate.
The investigation was conducted by both the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC). Assistant U.S. Attorney Travis Lynes is prosecuting.
