Operation D.I.R.E.C.T. Pressure Nets 65 Arrests, Significant Drug and Firearm Seizures in Columbus
The Columbus Police Department (CPD), in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Muscogee County District Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia, has concluded Operation D.I.R.E.C.T. Pressure.
The operation, which ran from August 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024, targeted violent crime hotspots in Columbus, focusing on the East Wynnton, North Highlands, and Baker Plaza neighborhoods. The initiative utilized ATF’s National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to identify areas with high rates of firearms-related incidents.
Key results of Operation D.I.R.E.C.T. Pressure:
- Arrests: 65 individuals arrested on 180 charges.
- Search Warrants: Three search warrants executed.
- Firearm Seizures:
- 28 firearms seized by ATF, including Glock switches, a short-barrel shotgun, and suspected suppressors.
- 21 firearms seized by CPD, including a sawed-off shotgun.
- 2,239 rounds of ammunition seized.
- One set of body armor seized.
- Drug Seizures:
- ATF: 7.5 pounds of methamphetamine, 320 grams of marijuana, 4 grams of cocaine, and 398 grams of fentanyl.
- CPD: 1,408.6 grams of marijuana, 105.9 grams of methamphetamine, 43.1 grams of fentanyl, 14.9 grams of cocaine, 0.2 grams of heroin, 137.5 grams of ecstasy, and 71 grams of psilocybin.
The operation was launched in response to rising violent crime trends in Columbus. Data analysis from January 1, 2023, to May 22, 2024, revealed:
- 60 murders.
- 513 shots fired calls.
- 3,876 shootings/aggravated assaults.
- 170 arrests of felons in possession of firearms.
- 1,206 firearms recovered and traced.
“This operation represents a significant step in our ongoing efforts to combat violent crime in Columbus,” stated Chief Stoney Mathis.
The CPD emphasized its commitment to proactive policing and collaboration with partner agencies.
