Gangster Disciples Leaders Sentenced for Deadly Conspiracy in Athens, Georgia

High-ranking members of the Gangster Disciples and its parallel female group, the Sisters of the Struggle, received prison sentences for their involvement in a deadly conspiracy linked to gang-related retaliation, resulting in the deaths of three Athens, Georgia, men.

“Philmon Chambers and his co-conspirators’ murderous crimes caused intense pain and suffering for three Georgia families whose loved ones were taken from them in a heinous manner,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “While no court can restore the lives that were lost, we hope these sentences provide some measure of justice and underscore our office’s commitment – working alongside our law enforcement partners – to combatting violent crime.”

“While these sentences won’t ease the pain felt by the victim’s families and friends, this does send a message of hope to our community that we will fight for the rights of those targeted by violent street gangs,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Dismantling violent criminal organizations is a priority for the FBI, and a goal we share with our law enforcement and prosecution partners across the country.”

“While these sentences will never undo the loss of the affected families, it sends a message that justice will prevail,” said Athens-Clarke County Police Chief Jerry Saulters. “We are grateful to our officers for their continued support of this case and those involved in the prosecution. Our community is safer because of your efforts.”

Two co-defendants previously pleaded guilty and await sentencing in Macon. Additionally, another co-defendant, Lesley Chappell Green, known as “Grip,” received a life sentence on February 20.

Chambers held a significant role within the Gangster Disciples, overseeing an enforcement team responsible for disciplining members. Browner led the Sisters of the Struggle and held a leadership position in the gang.

Evidence presented during the trial revealed the defendants’ involvement in a series of murders stemming from gang retaliation. Their actions resulted in the deaths of multiple individuals, including Walter Brown and Rodriquez Apollo Rucker. Subsequent attempts to cover up the crimes, including disposing of bodies, were intercepted by law enforcement.

The case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, aimed at reducing violent crime through collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local agencies. The investigation involved the FBI Athens Resident Agency Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department, and the Gwinnett County Police Department.