Four defendants connected to a methamphetamine trafficking operation in Middle Georgia were sentenced to significant prison time on July 10, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office. Denzelle Diangelo Willis of Macon, was handed down a sentence of 278 months in a federal lockup, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Willis had entered a guilty plea on a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine back on March 24.
James Richard Fuller, also of Macon, was sentenced to 181 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Fuller previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Julio Cesar Mendez, also known as “Migo,” received a 135-month prison sentence, and Deion Jocoley Howard was sentenced to 53 months. Both Mendez and Howard will also serve five years of supervised release following their incarceration. Under the federal system, there is no option for parole.
According to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office, the defendants were involved in distributing methamphetamine throughout the Middle District of Georgia. U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes stated, “Our office is working closely with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to make our communities safer.” DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Jae W. Chung also condemned the defendants’ actions, noting the often “tragic consequences” associated with drug trafficking.
The investigation began in November 2022 following the seizure of nearly 11 kilograms of methamphetamine. The case developed from an earlier probe into a drug trafficking operation led by Julian Coker. Investigators later identified Willis and Mendez as distributors of methamphetamine and heroin containing fentanyl. Through wiretaps and surveillance, authorities uncovered a stash house and links between street-level dealers and higher-level suppliers. Fuller was identified as a courier responsible for transporting methamphetamine between sources and distributors.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative targeting illegal immigration and dismantling networks of cartels and transnational criminal organizations. The investigation involved collaboration between the DEA and sheriff’s offices from Bibb, Monroe, and Peach counties, resulting in the disruption of the drug trafficking operation.
The case was prosecuted by Criminal Chief Leah E. McEwen on behalf of the government. Additional information about the case and Operation Take Back America is available on the Justice Department’s website. The investigation reflects ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address drug trafficking in local communities.
