MACON, Ga. — A former Georgia correctional officer cadet was sentenced earlier this week to years in federal prison for attempting to smuggle more than a half-kilogram of pure methamphetamine into a state facility.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
A judge sentenced 29-year-old Julius Deshawn Williams Jr., of Bonaire, Georgia, to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
Williams was undergoing training as a cadet at Dooly State Prison when officers intercepted him during a facility entry check on June 24, 2024. Georgia Department of Corrections officers discovered 640 grams of 100% pure methamphetamine on Williams and in his vehicle, along with a handgun.
During a security check and shake-down required for anyone entering Dooly State Prison on June 24, 2024, GDC officers found four packages of methamphetamine wrapped in black tape concealed in Williams’ pants. A subsequent search of his vehicle revealed four additional packages wrapped in black electrical tape alongside a pistol. Williams admitted to officers that he was attempting to bring the drugs into the facility to give to an inmate.
Williams pleaded guilty on Dec. 1, 2025, to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Under federal law, there is no parole.
TRENDING STORIES:
- Popular DJ killed, Rolex stolen in what friend calls a set-up
- Woman dies after running into traffic during fight on I-85
- Traffic stop turns into chase in Sandy Springs
U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes for the Middle District of Georgia highlighted the risks associated with smuggling by correctional staff following the sentencing.
“The penalties are steep when trusted members of the prison system smuggle contraband behind bars, as this exponentially increases the danger for everyone both inside and outside the prison walls,” Keyes said. “We are grateful to the dedicated correctional officers who protect the safety and security of our prisons each day, often under challenging circumstances. Their commitment and professionalism are essential to maintaining order and upholding justice.”
Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver commended the officers who intercepted the drugs and noted the agency’s policy on employee misconduct.
“The GDC does not tolerate actions of individuals who choose to bring discredit to the values of our agency and jeopardize our non-negotiable mission of public safety,” Oliver said. “We appreciate the support of our federal partners in ensuring that justice will be served on this former cadet, and we are proud of those officers involved who were diligent in stopping the introduction of dangerous contraband into one of our facilities.”
Jae W. Chung, special agent in charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division, stressed the role of joint law enforcement efforts in maintaining prison security. “This case is a clear example of why accountability matters,” Chung said.
“A person entrusted with becoming a correctional officer chose instead to participate in the smuggling of methamphetamine into a prison. That conduct threatens the safety and security of the entire correctional system. Working together with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to identify those who attempt to bring dangerous drugs behind prison walls and ensure they face the consequences of their actions.”
[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
©2026 Cox Media Group
