A large-scale contraband search at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center on Thursday led to the discovery of weapons, suspected drugs, and five felony charges, according to Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
The search was ordered by Sheriff Eugene Brantley as part of an ongoing effort to improve safety and security at the facility. Agencies assisting in the sweep included the Columbia, Burke, and Clayton County sheriff’s offices, as well as the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Blanchard said the coordinated effort covered every housing unit, cell, and common area of the jail.
The search turned up 20 handmade weapons, two tattoo devices, two small bags of unknown white powder, and approximately four grams of suspected synthetic marijuana (K2). Blanchard confirmed that five inmates are facing felony charges related to the contraband.
Sheriff Brantley thanked the participating agencies, highlighting the importance of collaboration.
“These partnerships are critical in allowing us to accomplish far more than we could alone, and today is a perfect example of that,” he said. “We especially want to thank Sheriff Levon Allen of Clayton County, Sheriff Whittle of Columbia County, Sheriff Williams of Burke County, and Chief Brad Johnson from the Georgia Department of Corrections.”
Blanchard noted that all seized materials are being processed and individuals responsible will face appropriate charges.
The operation concluded with a team lunch at the South Precinct, sponsored by Chick-fil-A and Chancey’s Wrecker Service.
Since taking office in January, Sheriff Brantley has made detention center operations a priority, Chief Blanchard said. Upgrades under the sheriff’s leadership have included improved sanitation, HVAC and shower repairs, roof work, guard line clearing, and upgraded security systems.
Sheriff Brantley emphasized that the operation was not a one-off event.
“It’s part of our ongoing commitment to keeping this facility among the most secure and professionally run in the state,” he said.
Regular inspections — daily, weekly, and monthly — will continue moving forward, Chief Blanchard confirmed.
