CORDELE, Ga. — Debbie Young has lived in Cordele since 1989 and owns her own farmer's market down the road from city hall.
She says she's always wanted to attend commission meetings as a small business owner, but she's been shocked by the recent news involving city leadership.
Cordele City Commissioner Royce Reeves Sr. was arrested Wednesday following a nearly year-long investigation by the GBI and other law enforcement into criminal gang and drug activity. Reeves serves as Commission Vice Chairman representing Ward 2.
"I didn't know we had gangs in Cordele," Young said. "Apparently, there's been an ongoing investigation on him, I didn't know anything about that."
That investigation is known as "Operation Shyne Down." During this operation, 120 arrest warrants on 24 suspects were made targeting the criminal street gang G-Shyne Bloods and their involvement in criminal gang activities in Crisp County.
Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock released a statement after the arrests.
"This agency pledged to work together to address the alarming rise in gang-related criminal activities and youth violence," he wrote. "Operation Shyne Down is a testament to the promise made."
Reeves faces charges of marijuana distribution, gang activities and RICO violations.
The Racketeer Influence and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a federal law targeting organized criminal activity and racketeering.
Two years ago, Governor Kemp also suspended him after he was charged with obstructing a police officer and criminal trespass.
"It's really sad. It's just embarrassing for our town," Young said. "It's sad to hear things like that with people in a position because it makes you wonder how fair things are in our town. We have businesses that want to come to this town, and for some reason, you know, that don't ever happen."
13WMAZ reached out to Cordele city officials about the investigation but no one was willing to comment.
The GBI says five people are still wanted in this case.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to the GBI by calling 1-800-597-8477.