By Bella Cruz

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In a major crackdown on drug trafficking in Gwinnett County, GA, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) arrested 24 individuals following a coordinated search warrant operation. According to a press release from the GBI, the arrests were part of the first phase of an investigation focused on a fentanyl drug trafficking organization believed to be led by Adrian Bernard Butler. Law enforcement agencies, including the GBI’s Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) and Gwinnett Metro Task Force, carried out five search warrants in the Buford area.

The GBI’s announcement highlighted the seizure of one kilogram of cocaine, ounces of fentanyl, and ounces of crack cocaine, alongside multiple pounds of marijuana and eight firearms. The operation, with the help of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office and other local and federal partners, targeted the Butler DTO, accused of flooding the streets of Gwinnett County and beyond with fentanyl, cocaine, and crack cocaine. The investigation also connected this group with multiple fentanyl overdose deaths in the region.

Leading the roster of the arrested is 38-year-old Adrian Bernard Butler, facing charges that include multiple counts of trafficking fentanyl and violations of the Georgia RICO Act. Each suspect’s charges range from drug possession to conspiracy and weapons charges, painting a comprehensive picture of an extensive criminal network. The operation’s resulting arrests were detailed in the GBI’s statement.

While this operation was heavily concentrated in the Buford area, the reach of the Butler DTO reportedly extends to Flowery Branch, Gainesville, and several other counties in northeast Georgia. Responsible for trafficking kilograms of narcotics, the moral fabric of the community has been tested by their actions. The GBI expressed hope that these arrests will significantly curb local drug distribution and assist ongoing investigations into opioid overdoses and drug trafficking.

The investigation is described as ongoing by the GBI, with further charges anticipated. With evidence gathered potentially aiding in other drug-related cases, the coordinated effort involved multiple law enforcement agencies. The exhaustive list of partners in this operation was provided by the GBI, showcasing an extensive network fighting against drug trafficking in the region. Anyone with information related to drug activity is encouraged to contact GBI ARDEO or submit tips anonymously through various platforms outlined in the GBI’s announcement. The fight against drug trafficking continues to be a leading priority for law enforcement agencies across Georgia.