Six Arrested, Fentanyl and Firearms Seized in SWAT-Led Raid at Augusta Budgetel Inn

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Six people were arrested and large quantities of fentanyl, other narcotics, and firearms were seized Wednesday afternoon after authorities executed search warrants at a hotel on 5th Street, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office said.

At about 2:45 p.m. Jan. 21, the sheriff’s office SWAT Team, Narcotics Division, and Crime Suppression Team served two search warrants at the Budgetel Inn and Suites, 954 5th Street. The warrants targeted two separate rooms on the property.

Investigators said the operation resulted in multiple arrests for outstanding warrants and drug-related offenses. Authorities credited information provided by community members for helping initiate the investigation, noting tips submitted through the MySheriff App played a role in developing the cases.

Those arrested were identified as James Berrian, Maricus Adams, Nathan Williams, Tkeyhia Lowe, Anazario Calhoun, and Braylon Jacobs. Charges include trafficking fentanyl, possession of oxycodone and cocaine with intent to distribute, multiple firearm offenses, theft by receiving stolen property, and several outstanding felony and bench warrants. Williams was also arrested on outstanding warrants from Burke County.

During the search, deputies seized approximately 103.7 grams of fentanyl, about 3.9 grams of crack cocaine, 35 oxycodone tablets, additional narcotics, and two firearms, one of which was confirmed stolen, according to the sheriff’s office.

All suspects were taken into custody without incident and transported for booking. Authorities said the seized evidence was collected and documented in accordance with departmental policy. The investigation remains active.

Sheriff Eugene Brantley said community cooperation continues to be critical in addressing violent crime and drug trafficking in the county.

“This county is no longer a place to hide out or commit crimes,” Brantley said, adding that he appreciates residents who share information and investigators who develop leads and build cases necessary to obtain search warrants.