Operation Skyhawk has culminated in a significant crackdown on contraband smuggling into Georgia prisons.
Authorities have arrested the owner of Thunder Drones, a drone repair shop, and one of his employees, accusing them of aiding gang operations by facilitating drone drops of illicit items into correctional facilities.
The Scale of the Smuggling Operation
The investigation revealed that drones were used to smuggle drugs, cell phones, and weapons into several prisons.
During the operation, law enforcement seized over 50 drones and intercepted communications between the shop owner, Robert Schwarz, and associates of inmates. The estimated value of the contraband intercepted totals approximately $7 million.
Details of the Arrests and Seizures
During the coordinated raids on Thunder Drones and Schwarz’s residence, authorities arrested 146 individuals linked to the smuggling operations, including eight correctional officers.
Items recovered include 51 pounds of suspected Ecstasy, 22 firearms believed to be intended for securing the drone operations, and 273 cell phones.
Legal Implications and Ongoing Investigations
The case has been tagged as the largest gang RICO case in Georgia’s history, with potential gang and RICO indictments pending against Schwarz and others involved.
The investigations are still ongoing, and further charges may be brought as more evidence comes to light.