Major Drug Bust in North Georgia: Over 1 Kilo of Fentanyl Seized, Suspect Arrested
On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, a significant drug bust took place in Hiram, Georgia, following a coordinated effort by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s (GBI) Northwest Georgia Drug Task Force (NWGDTF), the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The operation, which targeted 39-year-old Darrlin Vernard Warner, culminated in the seizure of over 1 kilogram (37 ounces) of fentanyl, along with large quantities of other narcotics, firearms, and cash.
The arrest stemmed from a month-long investigation into Warner’s suspected drug trafficking activities. At approximately 7 a.m. on November 13, law enforcement executed an arrest and search warrant at Warner’s residence, located at 45 Mayfield Court in Hiram. The operation involved the GBI, Paulding County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team, Warrant Division, K-9 Unit, Crime Scene Investigations Unit, and the FBI’s Cartersville Office. Upon entering Warner’s home, agents discovered a substantial stash of illegal narcotics, including over 1 kilogram of fentanyl, 16 ounces of methamphetamine, 46 grams of heroin, 9 grams of cocaine, and an array of pills.
In addition to the drugs, agents seized five firearms, which were believed to have been used in the commission of criminal activities. Authorities also found approximately $177,000 in cash, suspected to be the proceeds from Warner’s illegal drug trade.
Warner, who is being held without bond at the Paulding County Jail, faces a slew of charges, including:
- Trafficking Fentanyl
- Trafficking Methamphetamine
- Trafficking Heroin
- Possession of Cocaine
- Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime
The investigation, which has spanned several months, was led by the NWGDTF and the FBI, and it highlights the growing concern over the distribution of fentanyl in the region. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the amount of fentanyl seized is enough to potentially kill 500,000 people, underscoring the deadly impact of the drug.
Northwest Georgia Drug Task Force Commander, Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Steven Sweatt, emphasized the importance of removing such dangerous substances from the streets. “This is a great example of local, state, and federal partners working together to identify, investigate, and arrest those responsible for putting this poison into our communities,” Sweatt stated. “Getting that amount of poison off our streets makes all the long days worthwhile.”
Sheriff Gary Gulledge also praised the collaboration between law enforcement agencies. “Because of these partnerships, we were able to rid the streets of Paulding County of these dangerous drugs,” he said. “I commend all of the men and women who had a role in this operation.”
Warner’s arrest is part of a larger effort by the NWGDTF to combat the growing opioid crisis in the region. As the investigation continues, additional charges may be filed. Local authorities encourage the public to report any drug-related activity, and tipsters can contact the NWGDTF at (770) 646-9175 or report anonymously via the Paulding Sheriff mobile app.
The NWGDTF, which is managed by the GBI, serves several counties in Northwest Georgia, including Haralson, Polk, and Paulding. The task force is made up of members from various local law enforcement agencies, including the Haralson County Sheriff’s Office, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and Cedartown Police Department, among others.
