Operation Silent Hand Dismantles North Georgia Drug Trafficking Ring, Leading to 16 Arrests
Hall County, GA – A months-long racketeering investigation dubbed “Operation Silent Hand” culminated in 16 arrests across North Georgia on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, authorities announced. The operation targeted a major drug trafficking organization (DTO) distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, and oxycodone throughout the region.
Details of the Investigation
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s (GBI) Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office (ARDEO) led the investigation, in coordination with federal and local partners. The DTO operated across Franklin, Gwinnett, Habersham, Hall, Stephens, and White counties, maintaining connections in metro Atlanta to facilitate the trafficking of illicit narcotics and pharmaceutical opioids. GBI Press Release
Law enforcement officers executed nine search warrants and 16 arrest warrants throughout the region on Wednesday. The investigation revealed the organization was sourcing supplies from individuals connected to cartels in metro Atlanta and illegally diverting pharmaceuticals from local pain clinics. Fox 5 Atlanta
Seized Contraband
During the operation, agents seized a substantial quantity of contraband, including:
- 32 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine
- 4 pounds of suspected fentanyl
- Numerous diverted pharmaceutical opioids
- Multiple firearms
Individuals Charged
The following 16 individuals have been charged with Violation of the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act:
- William Doug Allen, 54, of Lula
- Tonya Doster Pitts, 51, of Lula
- Chad O’Neal Davis, 54, of Demorest
- Bart William Starks, 58, of Canon
- Randall Stewart Hill, 57, of Canon
- Leslie Nicole Brown Cedillo, 39, of Cleveland
- Yvonn Parker Brown, 64, of Toccoa
- Amy Michelle Williams, 51, of Toccoa
- Breann Denae Coalley, 54, of Mt. Airy
- Haven Douglas Allen, 31, of Alto
- Arthur Lee Poore, 63, of Gainesville
- Rodney Wayne Crump, 59, of Alto
- Kandi Nicole Stewart, 48, of Demorest
- Mona Lisa Summers, 62, of Mt. Airy
- Sarita King Davidson, 60, of Cornelia
- Linda Waddell Thompson, 62, of Demorest
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities state the investigation remains active, and additional arrests and drug seizures are expected. The GBI encourages anyone with information about drug activity to contact investigators or submit an anonymous tip. GBI Press Release
The operation involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation North Georgia Major Offenders Task Force, several sheriff’s offices, and the Toccoa Police Department, with assistance from the Hall and Habersham County District Attorney’s Offices. WSB Radio