AUGUSTA, Ga. — A large-scale contraband search at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center uncovered dozens of homemade weapons and other banned items, according to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
The coordinated sweep, ordered by Sheriff Eugene Brantley on April 17, covered every pod and cell in the facility. It was part of a broader effort to improve safety and security in the overcrowded jail.
The operation was conducted with the help of multiple partner agencies, including the Columbia, Burke and Clayton County sheriff’s offices, as well as the Georgia Department of Corrections.
“We are extremely grateful and appreciative of our partners and the relationships we are developing across the state,” stated Brantley. “These partnerships are critical in allowing us to accomplish far more than we could alone, and today is a perfect example of that.”
In total, officers recovered:
- 20 handmade weapons (shanks)
- Two homemade tattoo devices
- Two small bags of unknown white powder (currently under investigation)
- Four grams of suspected synthetic marijuana (K2)
- Evidence leading to five pending felony charges related to contraband possession
The sheriff’s office said those responsible for the contraband will face appropriate charges.
Since taking office in January, Brantley has made improving conditions at the jail a priority. Under the leadership of Major Chester Huffman, along with Captains Danko, Ken Daniels and Nicole Harrell, the facility has seen a number of upgrades, including:
- Deep cleaning and sanitation protocols
- HVAC system repairs and upgrades
- Restoration of shower facilities with reliable hot water
- Roof repairs
- Guard line clearing
- Door lock system upgrades for improved security
The safety of your personnel, your facility and your inmates depend on inspections. In the video below, Gordon Graham talks about the importance of performing necessary inspections regularly to avoid future problems.
“[This] operation wasn’t just about removing weapons or drugs — it was about reinforcing the safety and dignity of everyone who lives or works inside these walls,” Brantley said. “Jail searches are essential to ensure we eliminate potential threats, prevent violence and maintain order. Safety is the foundation of rehabilitation and professional operations.”
Looking ahead, the sheriff’s office plans to maintain a consistent routine of daily targeted inspections, weekly larger-scale checks and monthly comprehensive reviews of all housing areas.
“This isn’t a one-time event — it’s part of our ongoing commitment to keeping this facility among the most secure and professionally run in the state,” Brantley said.
