Major Drug Trafficking Ring in Middle Georgia Leads to Life Sentence, Multiple Lengthy Prison Terms

Kenneth Emanuel Pertillo, Jr., known as “Fat Boy,” was sentenced to life in prison this week by U.S. District Judge Ashley Royal for his involvement in a major drug trafficking operation in Middle Georgia. The organization, part of the Mafia criminal street gang MOB (Money Over Bitches), distributed large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and other drugs in Macon and surrounding areas.

Pertillo, along with co-defendant Johnifer Dernard Barnwell, was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute drugs and possession with intent to distribute multiple narcotics, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base. The FBI investigation revealed their roles in the distribution network, which included controlled drug purchases and wiretaps on key members’ phones.

“This armed criminal organization was pushing large amounts of fentanyl and other lethal combinations of street drugs mixed with fentanyl into our neighborhoods, putting many people at risk of death and degrading the safety of all,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Working alongside law enforcement at every level, our office will continue to leverage every available investigative and prosecutorial tool to reduce violent crime and keep communities safe.”

“Gangs wreak havoc on local residents by engaging in violence and peddling dangerous drugs that devastate communities and families,” said Senior Supervisory Special Agent Robert Gibbs of FBI Macon. “As this lengthy sentence demonstrates, the FBI and our partners will do whatever is necessary to dismantle violent criminal enterprises and keep our communities safe.”

During raids in July 2021, FBI agents seized significant quantities of drugs, firearms, and cash from multiple locations in Macon linked to the operation. The organization was responsible for distributing over three kilograms of fentanyl or fentanyl analogues, along with other drugs.

Numerous co-defendants associated with the gang have also been sentenced for their roles in the drug trafficking conspiracy, facing prison terms ranging from 60 months to over 25 years. The sentencing reflects ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle criminal enterprises and enhance community safety.

Prosecutors and law enforcement officials emphasized their commitment to combatting violent crime and drug trafficking, working in collaboration with local and federal agencies to protect communities from the devastating impact of illegal drugs and gang violence.

List of Co-defendants Sentenced:

• Troy Truelle Williams, Sr., aka “Ty” (300 months in prison)
• De’Kerio Ja’mel Coleman aka “Dee” (220 months in prison)
• Christopher Leon Coleman aka “Slim” (188 months in prison)
• Gregory Bernard Jolly aka “Stank” (188 months in prison)
• Joshua Antoine Green aka “J” or “Jay” (160 months in prison)
• Romello Campbell (120 months in prison)
• Diamond Monique Thomas (96 months in prison)
• Jameliha Shalonda Coleman aka “Juicy” (90 months in prison)
• Recardo Keon Ray aka “Keon” (70 months in prison)
• Johnnie B. Lowe (63 months in prison)
• Michael Clifford White (63 months in prison)
• Tiara Thomas aka “Red” (60 months in prison)
• Rochelle Oliver aka “Chelle” (3 years probation)