Massive Drug Bust in Augusta: Over 1.4 lbs. of Fentanyl Seized, Major Trafficker Arrested
A months-long investigation by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) Narcotics Division has led to the arrest of a major drug trafficker and the seizure of substantial quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Authorities report that the amount of fentanyl recovered alone is enough for more than 330,000 potentially lethal doses, which could endanger the entire population of Richmond County.
On June 24, 2025, narcotics investigators located and arrested Roman Kelly, 45, at the Quality Inn on Gordon Highway. Kelly was taken into custody on outstanding felony drug warrants and was found to be carrying approximately 28 grams of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest.
A subsequent court-authorized search of his hotel room yielded a significant haul of illicit substances and cash:
- Fentanyl: 664.9 grams (1.47 lbs) with an approximate street value of $530,000
- Methamphetamine: 549.2 grams (1.21 lbs) with an approximate street value of $55,000
- Cocaine: 682.5 grams (1.50 lbs) with an approximate street value of $68,000
- Marijuana: 56.7 grams with an approximate street value of $600
- U.S. Currency: $31,224
Kelly has been charged with Trafficking in Fentanyl, Trafficking in Methamphetamine, and Trafficking in Cocaine. He remains in custody at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center awaiting further judicial proceedings.
“The fentanyl crisis continues to take lives in our community,” said Sheriff Eugene Brantley. “This single operation removed enough of the drug to cause hundreds of thousands of fatal overdoses. Every gram we take off the streets represents lives saved and families spared unimaginable grief. I commend our Narcotics Division for their professionalism and relentless pursuit of those who profit from poisoning our citizens.”
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone struggling with substance abuse, or who knows someone who is, to contact local treatment resources or RCSO’s Community Services Division for assistance and referrals.
