Coordinated Law Enforcement Operation
On Tuesday night, a significant development occurred in an ongoing investigation into criminal gang activities. Multiple law enforcement agencies executed simultaneous search warrants across Richmond County and Grovetown, resulting in several arrests and substantial drug confiscations.
The Richmond County Sheriff's Office collaborated with Grovetown Police Department to conduct searches at three specific locations: Henry Circle and Feldspar Court in Augusta, along with Candleberry Drive in Grovetown.
Evidence and Arrests
During these operations, authorities confiscated approximately 30 pounds of marijuana, methamphetamine, gang-related materials, and over $211,000 in cash. Three individuals believed to be associated with the street gang Youngins with Money (Y.W.M.) were taken into custody, including the group's suspected leader.
Those apprehended include:
Mikael Javaro Williams, facing charges of marijuana trafficking and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute;
De'Ante Cannon, charged with marijuana trafficking, unlawful participation in street gang activity, and obstruction;
Kareem Levon Butler, charged with marijuana trafficking.
Chief Lewis Blanchard described these arrests as an important advancement in enhancing public safety throughout Augusta and the CSRA region.
"These results reflect months of hard work and strong partnerships," Blanchard said, thanking the Grovetown Police Department for its continued collaboration. "When agencies work together, we're able to make a real impact."
Investigation Timeline
According to official statements, the investigation targeting Y.W.M. commenced in February 2025 after intelligence connected the organization to violent offenses, illegal weapons, and extensive drug distribution operations within Richmond County.
Throughout the year, law enforcement conducted multiple operations related to this criminal group. In March, two members were arrested following the discovery of marijuana in their vehicle on Tubman Home Road.
During September, investigators recovered nine firearms, various drugs, and oxycodone pills from a residence on Brookshire Drive. Later that same month, a grand jury issued a comprehensive 42-count indictment against eleven defendants linked to the gang.
Additional arrests occurred throughout October and December, involving firearms, stolen weapons, and substantial quantities of marijuana discovered in homes and vehicles across Augusta.
Overall Impact
Since January 2025, enforcement actions connected to this investigation have resulted in the seizure of 20 firearms, more than 40 pounds of marijuana, methamphetamine, oxycodone pills, and significant cash believed to finance gang operations.
While acknowledging the gang hasn't been completely eliminated, Sheriff Eugene Brantley stated the arrests have substantially weakened the organization by removing key leadership, weapons, narcotics, and financial resources from circulation.
"Gang life is a dead-end," Brantley said. "We're committed to prevention and reaching young people before they get pulled into this lifestyle—but we will not tolerate gang violence, drug trafficking, or illegal firearms in Richmond County or the CSRA."
