Seven Arrested in Washington County Burglary, Drug Bust and Suspected Prison Contraband Plot
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ga. — Seven people were arrested in two separate investigations involving burglary, illegal drugs and an alleged attempt to smuggle contraband into Washington State Prison, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were first notified Thursday, April 16, 2026, of a burglary in the City of Sandersville. Following an investigation, authorities executed a search warrant at a residence on Elliot Lane outside Davisboro.
During the search, deputies said they found illegal drugs, leading to multiple arrests and additional charges.
Arrested in the burglary and drug investigation were:
- Jeffery Beard, 36, of Davisboro — charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug-related objects and burglary.
- Jamye Fligger, 42, of Augusta — charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug-related objects.
Hours later, around 3:30 a.m. Friday, a deputy spotted a suspicious vehicle near Davisboro and conducted a traffic stop after observing unusual travel patterns and a failure to maintain lane.
Deputies said marijuana and a firearm were found during the stop, and investigators developed information indicating a possible contraband drop near Washington State Prison.
Shortly afterward, prison officials reported two people dressed in black near the prison. Deputies and K9 units responded, detained suspects and searched the area, recovering backpacks and other items filled with contraband.
Authorities said recovered items included 4.5 pounds of methamphetamine, 2.95 pounds of tobacco, 45 vapes, 88 cellphones with chargers, two basketballs, a machete, liquor, a Dewalt flashlight with charger, craft magnets and a medium meat lovers pizza.
Arrested in the prison contraband investigation were:
- Monica Bell, 48, homeless
- Courtney Rome, 38, of Norcross
- Michael Martin, 43, of Ellenwood
- Christina Buchan-Shields, 32, homeless
All four face felony charges including trafficking methamphetamine, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, crossing guard lines, trading with inmates, conspiracy to commit a felony, possession of prohibited items for inmates, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and, where applicable, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
Authorities said both investigations remain ongoing and additional charges are possible.
