Valdosta Man Convicted in Cocaine Ring

A 49-year-old Valdosta man has been convicted of his role in a major cocaine ring that distributed hundreds of kilograms of the drug across the region.

Henry Austin, II, also known as ‘Poochie,’ was found guilty of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base following a three-day trial in federal court.

A jury deliberated for just one hour before returning the guilty verdict, and Austin’s sentencing will be scheduled at a later date before U.S. District Judge Hugh Lawson.

The investigation, which involved multiple law enforcement agencies, revealed a widespread cocaine and crack cocaine distribution circuit that spanned from Atlanta to South Georgia, including several nearby communities.

Austin and 18 co-conspirators, who had previously pleaded guilty and been sentenced, were responsible for distributing hundreds of kilograms of cocaine, which was sold both as powder and manufactured into crack cocaine.

Austin’s involvement in the drug trade dates back to the 1990s, and witnesses described him as one of the best crack cooks in the region.

‘Another major illegal drug ring operating in Georgia has been smashed,’ said Charles Peeler, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.

The investigation was led by the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, Tift County Sheriff’s Office, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julia C. Bowen, Michael T. Solis, and Leah E. McEwen are prosecuting the case.

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