Darrlin Vernard Warner, known as "Juice," has been arraigned on federal charges related to drug trafficking and firearms possession. The charges include conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
"Warner was allegedly trafficking a substantial amount of fentanyl and methamphetamine, posing an immense threat to the safety of residents of Paulding and Douglas Counties," stated U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. He emphasized the ongoing impact of these drugs on communities in northern Georgia and praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation.
FBI Atlanta Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke highlighted the severe impact of fentanyl poisonings in Georgia, noting that disrupting those who manufacture and distribute such substances remains a top priority for the FBI.
GBI Director Chris Hosey pointed out the significant threat posed by fentanyl and methamphetamine, stating, "The seizure of enough fentanyl to potentially kill 500,000 people underscores the deadly scale of this crisis." He acknowledged the crucial role played by local, state, and federal law enforcement in combating drug trafficking networks.
Paulding County Sheriff Ashley Henson expressed pride in interagency collaboration efforts that have led to the removal of dangerous drugs from county streets. "As the new Sheriff, I will relentlessly work to ensure that these dangerous substances are kept away from our children and residents," he remarked.
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, evidence gathered during October and November 2024 indicated Warner's alleged involvement in distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine across Paulding and Douglas Counties. A search warrant executed on November 13 resulted in the recovery of approximately one kilogram (2.2 pounds) of fentanyl, one pound of methamphetamine, five firearms, $177,000 in cash, and other suspected controlled substances.
Two milligrams of illicit fentanyl can be lethal; thus, the seized quantity could potentially kill up to 500,000 individuals.
Warner was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Walter E. Johnson on January 14 after being indicted by a federal grand jury on December 10. It is important to note that an indictment contains only charges; Warner is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The case is under investigation by several agencies including the FBI - Cartersville Office, GBI - Northwest Georgia Drug Task Force, Paulding County Sheriff's Office, Douglas County Sheriff's Office with assistance from Paulding County Fire/Rescue and Metro Ambulance.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Calvin A. Leipold III and Thomas M. Forsyth III are prosecuting this case as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strategic Initiative focused on addressing the fentanyl crisis in northwest Georgia.
Anyone with information about drug sales or trafficking can report it through various channels provided by law enforcement agencies.
For more information about drug prevention resources or contact details for further inquiries regarding this case or related matters can be found through official websites or communication lines mentioned by authorities.