20 Arrested, Massive Drug Seizure in North Georgia During ‘Operation Silent Hand’
North Georgia — A large-scale drug trafficking network operating across several North Georgia counties has been dismantled following a months-long investigation led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
The operation, called “Operation Silent Hand,” targeted a drug trafficking organization distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, and oxycodone throughout Hall, Habersham, Franklin, Stephens, White, and Gwinnett counties.
On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, law enforcement officers executed nine search warrants and 16 arrest warrants across the region. Investigators said the organization also maintained contacts in metro Atlanta to help move illegal narcotics and pharmaceutical opioids.
During the investigation, agents seized large amounts of drugs and other contraband, including 32 kilograms of methamphetamine, four pounds of fentanyl, numerous diverted pharmaceutical opioids, and multiple firearms.
Authorities said 20 people have been arrested in connection with the drug trafficking network.
Sixteen of the suspects are facing charges under the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, including:
- William Doug Allen, 54, Lula
- Tonya Doster Pitts, 51, Lula
- Chad O’Neal Davis, 54, Demorest
- Bart William Starks, 58, Canon
- Randall Stewart Hill, 57, Canon
- Leslie Nicole Brown Cedillo, 39, Cleveland
- Yvonn Parker Brown, 64, Toccoa
- Amy Michelle Williams, 51, Toccoa
- Breann Denae Coalley, 54, Mt. Airy
- Haven Douglas Allen, 31, Alto
- Arthur Lee Poore, 63, Gainesville
- Rodney Wayne Crump, 59, Alto
- Kandi Nicole Stewart, 48, Demorest
- Mona Lisa Summers, 62, Mt. Airy
- Sarita King Davidson, 60, Cornelia
- Linda Waddell Thompson, 62, Demorest
All suspects have been booked into the Hall County or Habersham County jails, according to authorities.
The investigation was led by the GBI Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office and involved multiple state, federal, and local agencies, including the FBI North Georgia Major Offenders Task Force, sheriff’s offices in Habersham, Stephens, Franklin, Banks, and Gwinnett counties, as well as the Toccoa Police Department.
The Hall and Habersham County District Attorney’s Offices also assisted in the case.
Stephens County Sheriff Rusty Fulbright praised the collaborative effort between agencies.
“I am very proud of GBI ARDEO, the FBI North Georgia Major Offenders Task Force, and all agencies involved in Operation Silent Hand,” Fulbright said. “By collaborating with state, federal, and neighboring agencies, our efforts can make a positive impact in our local and surrounding communities.”
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges and arrest warrants may be forthcoming.
Anyone with information related to illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact the GBI Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the GBI tip line or the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
