The head of a drug trafficking organization in Cook County, Georgia, and two associates have been found guilty of multiple federal charges after a trial lasting over two weeks in Valdosta. Calvin James Smith, Sr., known as "Rollo," was convicted on all 23 counts against him, including conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and various drug distribution charges. Smith could face life imprisonment.
Bobby Leon Kaiser was found guilty on nine out of twelve counts, including conspiracy and distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine base. He also faces a potential life sentence. Vernardo Henley was convicted on one count related to drug possession with intent to distribute and may also receive a life sentence.
The trial began on January 13 and concluded on January 29 under the supervision of Senior U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands. Sentencing dates are yet to be set, with no parole available in the federal system.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker emphasized the collaborative effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement in dismantling the organization: “Federal, state and local law enforcement marshaled significant resources to stop the distribution of a large amount of deadly illegal drugs from a small town in South Georgia.”
FBI Atlanta Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Rich Bilson highlighted the impact of their efforts: “The success of this large-scale investigation... demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to fighting the drug trafficking organizations responsible for driving addiction and destroying communities.”
GBI Director Chris Hosey noted that the verdict sends a message about accountability for criminal organizations operating within Georgia: "Today’s verdict sends a clear message that criminal organizations operating in Georgia... will be held accountable."
Hahira Police Chief Stryde Jones acknowledged the collaboration between agencies: "Investigations and prosecutions like this one are great examples of the ongoing effort between local agencies and our federal partners..."
Court documents revealed that an investigation into Smith's organization began as early as December 2020. The group operated primarily out of Adel, Georgia, distributing methamphetamine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and other substances through an open market at Kaiser's gazebo.
Agents used wiretaps and confidential sources to gather evidence leading up to November 10, 2022, when search warrants were executed at multiple locations associated with the operation. Significant quantities of drugs were seized along with firearms.
Smith has an extensive criminal record involving assault and firearm offenses; Henley has previous convictions related to controlled substances; Kaiser has past felony convictions for false imprisonment among others.
The case involved investigations by several agencies including the FBI, GBI, Hahira Police Department among others. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Monica Daniels and Robert McCullers are handling prosecution for this case.