Major Drug Bust in Butts County: What We Know

February 9, 2025
1 min read
The largest drug distribution network in Butts County is officially out of business, according to Sheriff Gary Long. Authorities have dismantled what they describe as the most significant narcotics threat to the community, following a months-long investigation targeting fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamines, cocaine, and illegal prescription pill distribution.

The largest drug distribution network in Butts County is officially out of business, according to Sheriff Gary Long. Authorities have dismantled what they describe as the most significant narcotics threat to the community, following a months-long investigation targeting fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamines, cocaine, and illegal prescription pill distribution.

Just The Facts:

  • The Butts County Sheriff’s Office seized 700 grams of heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, oxycodone pills, and drug manufacturing equipment.
  • Eight suspects, including Darian Berry Sr. and Darian Berry Jr., face charges under Georgia’s Racketeering Act.
  • Search warrants executed at three locations in Jackson.
  • Investigation into hidden assets continues, with more charges expected.

The Details: Authorities say the investigation, which focused on Darian Berry Sr. and his associates, targeted a network operating in Butts, Henry, and Monroe counties. Sheriff Long credits his narcotics unit with systematically identifying and eliminating the organization’s operations.

Deputies seized a significant quantity of heroin, along with methamphetamines and cocaine, along with materials used in drug manufacturing.

“This investigation led to the largest heroin seizure in our county’s history and will save countless lives by it being removed from the streets of Butts County.” said Long.

The first phase of the investigation resulted in multiple arrests, including:

  • Darian Berry Sr. (a.k.a. Dre Berry) – Faces multiple charges, including violating the Georgia Racketeering Act, trafficking heroin and methamphetamines, and conspiracy to sell controlled substances.
  • Darian Berry Jr. (a.k.a. D) – Charged with trafficking heroin and methamphetamine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and conspiracy to sell illegal drugs.
  • Furickus Grier (a.k.a. Braun) – Charged with heroin trafficking, conspiracy to sell methamphetamine and heroin, and violating the Georgia Racketeering Act.
  • Christopher Askins (a.k.a. Bull Hook) – Faces conspiracy and racketeering charges.
  • Reginal Collier (a.k.a. Red) – Charged with trafficking and manufacturing heroin.
  • Krystal White – Charged with heroin and ecstasy possession.
  • Jennifer Nicole Leach (a.k.a. Nikki) – Faces conspiracy and trafficking charges.
  • Donna Potts – Charged with conspiracy to purchase methamphetamine and oxycodone.

The Sheriff’s Office executed search warrants at three locations in Jackson, Georgia, where drugs, paraphernalia, and evidence related to manufacturing were seized.

What’s Next: The second phase of the investigation is underway, focusing on assets authorities say were deliberately hidden under different names. Officials expect additional arrests related to financial crimes and asset concealment.

Sheriff Long commended his deputies for their work and issued a stern warning to drug dealers: “We are going nowhere, and we will continue to pursue you until you are arrested and out of business.”

⚠️ Reminder: Crime articles contain only charges and information from police reports and law enforcement statements. Suspects and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


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