A federal jury has convicted a Jefferson man and one from Athens for their roles in an Athens-based drug trafficking network linked to a Mexican cartel that distributed illegal drugs throughout the Athens area. In addition to meth, fentanyl, and other drugs, federal agents seized more than two dozen guns during the investigation.
Josue Serda, 26, of Jefferson, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, four counts of distribution of fentanyl, one count of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of distribution of methamphetamine on premises where a person under 18 was present, and one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance and faces a maximum of life in prison.
Gregory Robinson, 32, of Athens, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, one count of distribution of fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute oxycodone, and one count of maintaining drug involved premises and faces a maximum of life in prison.
A third defendant, Ariel Collins, 32, of Athens, was found not guilty.
As part of the investigation, law enforcement seized 26 guns; 26 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $780,000; 1.7 kilograms of fentanyl with an estimated street value of $60,000; approximately 500 grams of methamphetamine; 5.14 ounces of crack cocaine; 2.4 pounds of marijuana; 128 controlled pharmaceuticals; and $63,532 in cash.
Another 14 people are charged in this case.