Two Richmond County Sheriff’s Office deputies are under internal investigation following the bloody arrest of De’Ante Cannon, the alleged leader of the street gang Youngins with Money (YWM).
The investigation stems from the deputies’ handling of Cannon’s arrest Tuesday afternoon and the subsequent release of a graphic image showing Cannon with visible injuries.
Photos of Cannon’s bloodied face circulated widely on social media, prompting public concern and allegations that excessive force may have been used. A later-released mugshot shows Cannon cleaned up, though injuries above his right eye and blood around his nose remain visible.
According to a press release issued Friday, RCSO Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard said the actions of two deputies “did not meet the high standards and expectations” set under Sheriff Eugene Brantley’s administration. A formal internal investigation is expected to be completed by next week.
While one deputy’s actions during the arrest itself are under review, the second deputy is being investigated for the release and dissemination of the bloody photo, which was taken from body-worn camera footage. A similar incident in Columbia County led to discipline against a deputy for posting a photo of an injured suspect to his personal social media account with the caption “FAFO.”
The Richmond County deputies involved have not been publicly identified. Reports indicate the arrest occurred while officers were executing a search warrant Tuesday afternoon on Henry Circle. According to arrest warrants, Cannon was spotted running in the backyard of the residence, where deputies apprehended him and charged him with obstruction of law enforcement.
A social media post by “Bro Garcia” shared one of the images showing Cannon in apparent pain with blood streaming down his face. Garcia described the injuries as “brutal” and urged the public to “stay informed.”
“I am certain the Sheriff will publicly address this situation,” Garcia wrote.
Chief Blanchard confirmed the sheriff’s office is reviewing body-camera footage as part of its routine internal auditing process.
“Investigators are continuing to review additional body-worn camera footage and will be conducting interviews with all involved parties to ensure a thorough and fair assessment of the incident,” Chief Blanchard said. “This process is necessary to gather all facts and ensure accountability.”
The sheriff’s office said its findings will be shared with media partners and the public once the investigation is complete.
“We appreciate the community’s patience as this matter is reviewed and reaffirm our commitment to holding ourselves to the highest standards of conduct,” Chief Blanchard added.
The investigation follows a coordinated gang enforcement operation that led to multiple arrests and the seizure of large quantities of drugs, cash, and gang-related items in Augusta and Grovetown.
Authorities say three men connected to the street gang Youngins with Money were arrested following the execution of multiple search warrants. Investigators seized approximately 30 pounds of marijuana, methamphetamine, more than $211,000 in cash, and numerous items displaying the gang’s name and symbols, including custom rugs and jewelry used to promote and identify the group.
Those arrested include:
- Mikael Javaro Williams, charged with trafficking marijuana and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute
- De’Ante Cannon, charged with trafficking marijuana, unlawful participation in street gang activity, and obstruction of law enforcement
- Kareem Levon Butler, charged with trafficking marijuana
