Drone Contraband Drop at Washington State Prison Foiled, Two Men Arrested on Trafficking Charges
SANDERSVILLE, Ga. – Two men were arrested after Washington County deputies disrupted an apparent attempt to use a drone to deliver drugs and other contraband near Washington State Prison, authorities said.
Deputies with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded Friday evening, July 24, to a report of a suspicious vehicle at Jordan Mill Pond on Jordan Mill Pond Road.
When deputies arrived, they encountered two men who were allegedly preparing to launch a drone. Both suspects fled on foot into a wooded area, leaving behind the drone and several packages at the scene.
Deputies secured the equipment and requested assistance from a Georgia Department of Corrections K-9 team, which began tracking the suspects through the woods.
One suspect was located and taken into custody a short distance from the scene. Additional deputies and a drone unit joined the search, and the second suspect was found and arrested a short time later.
During the investigation, deputies recovered approximately 26 pounds of marijuana, 2.2 pounds of methamphetamine and 26 pounds of tobacco. Investigators also seized suspected oxycodone, promethazine, cigarettes, cigars, vaping devices, cell phones and chargers, knives, shoes, clothing, speakers, lighters and alcoholic beverages.
Authorities identified the suspects as Earl Eutsey III, 34, of Lithonia, and Teddrick Gholston, 43, of Macon.
Both men are charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, trafficking in marijuana, possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance, trading with inmates, nine counts of prohibited items, conspiracy to commit a felony, two counts of possession of a gun or knife during the commission of certain crimes, possession of tools for the commission of certain crimes, possession of a dangerous drug, drugs not kept in their original container and possession of drug-related objects.
Sheriff Joel Cochran thanked the Georgia Department of Corrections for its assistance, citing the strong partnership between the agencies in preventing illegal drugs and other contraband from reaching Washington State Prison.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue working with law enforcement and corrections partners to prevent contraband from entering correctional facilities and to protect the citizens of Washington County.
The investigation remains ongoing.
