The final two defendants in a large-scale south Georgia drug trafficking operation were convicted after a four-day federal jury trial in Waycross, according to a March 31 announcement by Margaret E. "Meg" Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia.
The convictions mark the conclusion of a lengthy investigation and prosecution involving dozens of individuals accused of distributing methamphetamine and other controlled substances throughout rural communities. Authorities say the conspiracy operated both inside and outside Georgia's prison system, with illegal drugs distributed across multiple counties.
Marquan Jenkins, also known as “Anna Brooke” or “Mary Thompson,” age 31, was found guilty on charges including conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and distribution of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. He faces at least ten years in prison, up to life. Christopher Hawkins, also known as “Rayshon Hawkins,” age 30, was convicted on similar conspiracy charges along with eleven counts of distribution and one count related to firearm possession during drug trafficking; he faces at least fifteen years in prison and up to two life sentences. Federal sentencing does not allow parole.
“These drug traffickers operated inside and outside Georgia’s prison system, distributing dangerous, illegal drugs throughout communities in rural Georgia,” Heap said. “These guilty verdicts confirm our commitment to the relentless pursuit of drug traffickers, whether they are in big cities or small towns, and keeping our neighborhoods safe.”
Jenkins was identified during trial testimony as having led the conspiracy from within state prison walls while serving time for robbery convictions since 2012. Hawkins was described as a major distributor within the network. The case originated from a January 2025 indictment that charged thirty-seven people with participating in an extensive scheme spanning roughly four years starting early 2021; much activity allegedly took place using contraband cell phones inside prisons.
Of all those charged under USA v. Brinson et al., thirty-five have been convicted or pleaded guilty on various counts related to drugs or firearms; seventeen have received sentences up to over ten years' imprisonment while others await sentencing.
Judge Lisa Godbey Wood will set sentencing dates for Jenkins and Hawkins following pre-sentence investigations by U.S. Probation Services.
Brad Snider from FBI Savannah said: "These convictions send a clear message that no matter where offenders attempt to hide or operate – from behind bars or within our communities – the FBI remains committed to dismantling criminal organizations and protecting the public from the violence and addiction they drive." Beau Kolodka from ATF Atlanta added: "ATF and our law enforcement partners are focused on stopping those who endanger our communities, and we’ll continue to utilize every resource we have to keep our streets safe."
