Bibb County Burglary Ring Defendants Plead Guilty Before Trial, Four Sentenced

Four defendants involved in a 61-count indictment for RICO, theft, and commercial burglary pleaded guilty on April 8, 2024, just before their trial was scheduled to begin in Bibb Superior Court. Antuane Simmons (36), Frankie Barnes (55), Cornelius Redding (35), and Marcus Robinson (44) were part of a crime spree lasting from December 23, 2019, through April 28, 2020.

The burglars targeted various businesses including convenience stores, bulk stores, pharmacies, liquor stores, small businesses, and salons, using hoodies, facemasks, gloves, boots, and knee pads to conceal their identities.

Barnes was the first to indicate a desire to plead guilty and cooperated with the state as a witness against his co-defendants. Facing his testimony, the remaining defendants decided to plead guilty rather than face trial.

The District Attorney’s Trial Team was led by Senior Assistant District Attorney Kyle Owenby and Assistant District Attorney Taylor Wilson. Together they worked their case and presented the pleas to the Court while reminding all “there is no honor among thieves,” as the Judge pronounced sentence upon each Defendant.

Each defendant received a sentence: Simmons, charged in 36 of the burglary counts, was sentenced to 20 years with 15 to be served in prison. Robinson, charged in 28 counts, received 20 years with 10 in prison. Redding, charged in 15 counts, got 20 years with 4 in prison. Barnes, charged in 19 counts, received 20 years with 3 in prison.

“I echo the words of Senior Assistant District Attorney Kyle Owenby—there truly is NO honor among thieves when the time is upon them to account for their crimes or to face harsh consequences. I praise the diligent and hard work of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Investigators in solving these complicated and long running crimes committed against businesses in Bibb County. They have been steadfast in ensuring justice was served for our entire community and for that they deserve out thanks and gratitude.” said DA Howard.