A Columbus man faces a potential life sentence after pleading guilty to distributing methamphetamine as part of a federal drug trafficking investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Demetric Thomas, 38, also known as “Meatball,” pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine on Monday, October 26, before U.S. District Judge Clay Land, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia.
Thomas faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. He also faces up to five years of supervised release and a maximum fine of $10 million. His sentencing date has not been scheduled. There is no parole in the federal prison system.
According to court documents, the case stemmed from a drug trafficking investigation conducted by the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Georgia Bureau of Investigation and Columbus Police Department.
On May 21, 2025, federal and state agents conducted a controlled drug purchase at 2318 6th Avenue in Columbus, purchasing 111.2 grams of methamphetamine from Thomas. The substance was reported to be 98% pure.
Investigators conducted a second controlled purchase at the same location on October 14, 2025, purchasing another 97.2 grams of methamphetamine, which was reported to be 93% pure.
On October 22, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at the 6th Avenue location. Thomas was present and fled as officers approached, but he was taken into custody following a brief pursuit.
Authorities reported finding $3,337 in cash on Thomas. Nearly 90 grams of methamphetamine, reported to be 98% pure, were discovered inside a shed-like structure behind the residence.
Investigators also found cocaine, crack cocaine, ecstasy, two digital scales, plastic baggies and a stolen Glock semi-automatic pistol inside the structure.
The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative targeting illegal drug trafficking, cartels, transnational criminal organizations and violent crime.
“This case reflects the continued results of our coordinated efforts to hold armed drug traffickers accountable in Columbus and across the Middle District of Georgia,” U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes said.
Columbus Police Chief Stoney Mathis said the department would continue working with law enforcement partners to investigate illegal drug activity and hold those responsible accountable.
The investigation involved the FBI, DEA, GBI and Columbus Police Department.
