Federal Probe Dismantles Macon Gun and Drug Network, Three Defendants Convicted

MACON, Ga. — Three Macon men have been convicted or sentenced in federal court for their roles in a firearms and drug trafficking operation uncovered during a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigation, officials said.

Brandon Thorpe, 32, pleaded guilty April 23 to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and faces up to 15 years in prison. Lonnie Alexander, 44, pleaded guilty April 21 to distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. John Cato, 25, was sentenced Feb. 5 to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to firearms trafficking.

The cases are being overseen by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell.

According to court documents, the investigation began in March 2024 when agents learned Alexander was selling firearms and narcotics in Macon. Over the following year, authorities documented multiple transactions involving drugs and weapons, including sales near Mercer University.

Investigators said Alexander arranged firearm sales for buyers, including individuals he knew were convicted felons. Transactions included the sale of pistols, revolvers and methamphetamine at various locations across the city.

Cato was identified as a key participant in firearms trafficking, including the sale of multiple weapons during coordinated transactions. Officials said one sale involved three firearms, including a machinegun, along with methamphetamine. In another case, Cato sold seven firearms and a high-capacity drum magazine.

Authorities said Thorpe assisted in transporting firearms, including driving Cato to a location where a dozen weapons were sold.

Cato was arrested after attempting to flee from agents during a planned transaction in July 2025. Investigators said firearms, including stolen weapons, and a large quantity of promethazine were recovered from his vehicle.

In total, agents seized 30 firearms, including a machinegun, conversion devices and stolen weapons. Authorities also recovered more than 67 grams of cocaine and more than 100 grams of methamphetamine during the investigation.

Officials said both Alexander and Thorpe have prior felony convictions, making it illegal for them to possess firearms.

The case was investigated by the ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Couch.