Drugs, gun and packages seized in contraband bust near Johnson State Prison

Deputies seized meth, marijuana, and a firearm during a traffic stop near Johnson State Prison.

WRIGHTSVILLE, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Law enforcement stopped a suspected contraband drop at Johnson State Prison early Saturday morning, seizing drugs, weapons and other items before they reached the facility.

According to a news release from the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, around 12:36 a.m., a Wrightsville Police Department officer spotted what appeared to be a drone flying near the prison. A Johnson County deputy later found a suspicious silver sedan nearby. The vehicle’s registration traced back to an out-of-area owner, which raised concern.

At 12:56 a.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop based on the vehicle’s movements, the late hour, and its location near the prison, the sheriff’s office said. Investigators determined the driver had active warrants and detained him on the scene.

A search revealed a drone with components, multiple plastic-wrapped packages, an authentic Rolex watch, electronic devices, a Glock 17 handgun with an extended magazine, about 1,010.5 grams (2.2 pounds) of suspected methamphetamine, about two pounds of suspected cannabis, and other items prohibited in prisons, the release said.

Both the driver and a passenger, who have not been identified, were taken into custody, pending further investigation. The sheriff’s office said the Georgia Department of Corrections was immediately notified. All evidence was secured and taken to the Danny Elbert Detention Center.

That’s all the information that’s been released at this time.