A Macon man, Johnifer Dernard Barnwell, also known as "Whoop" and "Malixe," has been sentenced to life in prison for armed drug trafficking. This sentence follows his escape from Bibb County Jail in 2023 while awaiting federal sentencing. Barnwell was captured later that year in Augusta, Georgia, allegedly with firearms and large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Barnwell, 38, was found guilty at trial on October 2, 2023, of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute several drugs including fentanyl and methamphetamine. He also faced charges related to firearm possession during a drug trafficking crime. In addition to the life sentence, he received an additional five years after pleading guilty to escaping custody.
Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker remarked on the case: “Despite his attempts to escape justice, Johnifer Barnwell has been held accountable for his criminal actions.” Booker commended law enforcement officers for their role in capturing Barnwell and preventing further distribution of dangerous drugs.
Senior Supervisory Special Agent Robert Gibbs of FBI Macon highlighted the impact of gangs on communities: “Gangs wreak havoc on local residents...cooperation between federal, state and local law enforcement is vital.”
U.S. Marshal Stephen D. Lynn emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation: “The successful resolution of this case demonstrates the importance of our professional partnerships.”
Bibb County Sheriff David Davis expressed gratitude towards investigators: “This sentence illustrates the penalty that repeat and dangerous felons face...We can be grateful for the investigative work...in bringing Johnifer Barnwell to justice.”
Court documents reveal that after being convicted on October 2, 2023, Barnwell escaped from custody with assistance from others but was recaptured by FBI agents and Bibb County deputies in November 2023.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom prosecuted the case against Barnwell.