Georgia – Deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office successfully intervened in an attempted contraband drop near Washington State Prison (Georgia) on the morning of September 11, 2024. A patrol deputy near Davisboro noticed a suspicious vehicle stopped in the middle of the highway, close to the prison. After monitoring the vehicle for a short time, the deputy saw a passenger throw a large trash bag out the window. The deputy attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to comply, leading to a brief pursuit.
The deputy managed to stop the vehicle, and during the investigation, a significant amount of illegal drugs and other contraband were discovered and seized. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining vigilance and taking proactive measures to protect the safety of the community.
Sheriff Cochran confirmed the arrests of two individuals involved in the attempted contraband drop near the state prison. They now face multiple felony charges, including drug trafficking and conspiracy.
Those arrested and charged are as follows:
Byron Gearing, age 45, from Atlanta, GA:
- Conspiracy to Commit a Felony (FEL)
- Conspiracy to Commit a Felony (FEL)
- Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute (FEL)
- Trafficking Methamphetamine (FEL)
- Trading with Inmates Without Consent of Warden (FEL)
Demarcus Morgan, age 27, from Atlanta, GA:
- Trading with Inmates Without Consent of Warden (FEL)
- Trafficking Methamphetamine (FEL)
- Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute (FEL)
- Conspiracy to Commit a Felony (FEL)
- Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police (FEL)
- Conspiracy to Commit a Felony (FEL)
- Speeding
- Reckless Driving
- Stop Sign Violation x2
- Failure to Use Turn Signal
- Failure to Maintain Lane
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will continue to respond swiftly to criminal activity, particularly in cases involving attempts to smuggle contraband into state prisons. This operation demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring public safety and preventing illegal activities in the area.