ALBANY, Ga. — Two Central Georgia natives plead guilty to distribution of methamphetamine after prosecutors say they sold drugs to undercover informants, a press release from the United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Georgia said.
The case stems from a drug trafficking investigation launched in late 2022 and early 2023.
Federal prosecutors said Justin Vinson, 42, of Warwick, Georgia, pleaded guilty on Sept. 17. Shana Black, 34, of Cordele, Georgia, pleaded guilty on Aug. 15.
“Repeat convicted felons who illegally arm themselves and distribute the most highly addictive and dangerous drugs into our communities will face federal consequences for these crimes,” U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia Peter Leary said.
Over the course of their investigation, Black and Vinson both sold meth to undercover agents during the course of the investigation.
When Black, for instance, was arrested in Crisp County, she had nearly 1,000 grams — or just over two pounds — of meth in her car along with finding guns and scales in her hotel room, the press release said. She had previously sold an undercover agent 100 grams, or 0.2 pounds, to an undercover cop at a Perry hotel.
During the investigation, prosecutors say Vinson had purchased 15 ounces of meth — just under a pound — and sold just over 0.5 pounds of meth to information Jan. 22, 2023 before his arrest.
When they searched Vinson's home on January 26, 2023, they also found six guns, including a semiautomatic pistol in his bedroom, the press release said.
"I am incredibly proud of our agency's relentless efforts and the strong collaboration with our local and federal partners,” Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock said. “Methamphetamine trafficking brings dangerous consequences to our community, often resulting in tragedy and loss of life. This case highlights our dedication to safeguarding the community and demonstrates the powerful results we achieve through collaboration."
They said both face a minimum sentence of 10 years up to a possible life sentence. Both will also undergo a five-year supervised release and a $10 million fine following their sentence, which has yet to be announced.
The release added that Vinson and Black were both convicted on previous meth charges. Vinson was convicted in Lee County, while Black was convicted in Jones County on possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine charges.
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