Joint Operation Leads to Federal Fentanyl Trafficking Charges Against Two in Columbus

A joint investigation by the Columbus Police Department’s Special Operations Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has resulted in federal charges against two individuals involved in a significant fentanyl trafficking operation in the Columbus area.

During the summer and fall of 2024, the two agencies conducted “Operation D.I.R.E.C.T. Pressure,” an initiative specifically focused on curbing the distribution of fentanyl in Columbus and surrounding communities.

As a direct result of this investigation, Reginald Kimbrough (also known as “Thidi”) and Kelvin Traylor were arrested. Authorities allege that Kimbrough led a drug trafficking operation responsible for moving large amounts of fentanyl into the area.

In June 2025, both men were indicted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia on charges of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. Kimbrough additionally faces two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.