COLUMBUS, GA – Michael Schlarman, 32, known on the streets as “White Mike,” is headed to federal prison after admitting to flooding the streets of Columbus with enough fentanyl to kill hundreds of thousands. Schlarman was sentenced today to 156 months behind bars, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Clay Land.
The bust, a joint operation by the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and FBI, uncovered a chilling operation at Schlarman’s Wagner Drive residence. On January 26th, agents executed a search warrant, only to have Schlarman attempt a brazen escape out the back door. DEA Air Support quickly intervened, bringing him back into custody without incident.
Inside, investigators found a staggering 496.4 grams of fentanyl and 265.5 grams of p-Fluorofentanyl—a particularly potent fentanyl analogue. Authorities estimate this haul contained roughly 380,000 potentially lethal doses. The operation wasn’t just about the drugs; Schlarman had clearly set up shop. Agents also seized a Glock 9mm with an extended magazine, a Taurus 9mm with a magazine and ammunition, multiple jars of cutting agents, digital scales, a 20-ton hydraulic press, and a significant amount of cash.
“Individuals caught distributing fentanyl into our communities will be held accountable for a crime which is profiting from the death of people, including many first-time users,” stated U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “A single dose can kill. Our office and our law enforcement partners are working to combat the spread of fentanyl – and save lives – in every community across the Middle District of Georgia.” The sentiment was echoed by Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division, who emphasized the relentless pursuit of drug dealers like Schlarman during the ongoing opioid epidemic.
This wasn’t Schlarman’s first brush with the law. Records show a lengthy criminal history, including three prior burglary convictions in Muscogee County Superior Court. The federal system doesn’t offer parole, meaning Schlarman will serve the full 156 months. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams led the prosecution in the case, securing a significant victory in the fight against fentanyl trafficking.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of the fentanyl crisis gripping the nation. While one dealer is off the streets, the flow of poison continues. Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert, working to dismantle these operations and bring those responsible to justice. This bust highlights the devastating impact even a single individual can have when peddling death for profit.
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