Operation Oxy Moron: Middle Georgia Takes Down Major Drug Network
JACKSON, GA – July 23, 2025 – A months-long, multi-county investigation into the illegal distribution of prescription medications and narcotics has culminated in the arrests of 18 individuals, with four more still wanted. Led by Butts County Deputies and Sheriff Gary Long, “Operation Oxy Moron” targeted a complex drug trafficking network, seizing significant quantities of marijuana and multiple firearms.
The investigation, which stretched across multiple counties, centered on Reynard Stewart of Jackson, GA, who allegedly purchased prescriptions from individuals and redistributed various medications, including Oxycodone, Adderall, Xanax, Cocaine, Marijuana, and suspected Fentanyl. Investigators believe some of the Oxycodone pills being distributed were counterfeit and contained Fentanyl, though final toxicology results are pending.
“This case is about more than just illegal drugs—it’s about the lives they impact,” said Sheriff Gary Long. “Addiction is a crisis in our community and across the nation. Many are literally one pill away from their death.”
Investigation Details and Seizures
Butts County agents followed leads into Spalding County, focusing on a location on Williams Street in Griffin, GA, an area previously linked to drug investigations. On July 16, 2025, the Spalding County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at the Williams Street address, leading to the seizure of multiple pounds of Marijuana and several firearms.
Financial documents are still being reviewed, but records already show one individual spent over $36,000 with Stewart in just six months this year. The investigation also identified several metro Atlanta physicians who issued questionable prescriptions; this information will be shared with the Georgia State Medical Board for review. Individuals who sold their prescriptions will be reported to the State Pharmacy Board.
Sheriff Long issued a stern warning to drug dealers, stating, “We are and will disassemble your entire organization and your next stop will be the Georgia Department of Corrections.” He also reiterated his commitment to helping those suffering from addiction, offering free treatment to anyone who asks.
Arrests and Warrants
In total, “Operation Oxy Moron” has resulted in 22 warrants with charges ranging from illegal use of telecommunication facilities to conspiracy to purchase and sell various narcotics.
Individuals Arrested and In Custody:
- Reynard Stewart
- Nathaniel Eckert
- Nicholas Delong
- Jeffery Head
- Jerry Evans
- Zachary Merritt
- Carissa Fears
- Laketa Barlow
- Belinda Bostwick
- Amanda Baldwin
- James Watson Jr.
- Ewone Parks
- Erin Wiley
- Brady Collins
- Kerrie Goodman
- Angela Harris
- Kayla Biles Collins
Individuals Wanted:
- Ameka Shivers
- Charles Roberts
- Sherika Tanner
- Trevon Weaver
- Branden Jeffcoat
Collaborative Effort
Sheriff Long commended his Special Operations Division for their “labor intensive and complex” work. He also extended deep gratitude to numerous supporting agencies, including:
- Towaliga District Attorney Jonathan Adams and Assistant District Attorney Leslie Tilson
- Spalding County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division
- District Attorney Marie Broder and the Griffin Judicial Circuit
- Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
- Lamar County Sheriff’s Office
- Upson County Sheriff’s Office
- Henry County Police Department
- GBI Gang Task Force
- Drug Enforcement Administration’s Atlanta-Carolinas HIDTA
The Towaliga District Attorney’s Office stated, “This is a major takedown of a complex drug trafficking network distributing dangerous prescription narcotics, including suspected counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl.” They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting law enforcement and protecting community safety.
