The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is investigating operations at the Athens-Clarke County jail amidst reports of drug smuggling by officers.
According to the Athens Banner-Herald, the GBI has already spent a year investigating detention officers working at the jail.
Allegations surfaced last year that officers were smuggling illegal substances to inmates. An investigation began in May of 2021.
The investigation began when former employees reported dangerous conditions at the jail, as well as understaffing and morale issues. It was reported that detention officers were smuggling illegal substances into the jail for Bloods gang members.
While the GBI did not specify the substances that were being trafficked, the Banner-Herald says the jail’s former major, Jessica Goings, mentioned that fentanyl usage was a significant problem. She spoke at a town hall held by Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement in March.
The investigation by the GBI is still ongoing.
