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The Brief A federal jury convicted two Georgia men in a cartel-linked drug trafficking case centered in Athens. Investigators seized 26 firearms, 26 kilograms of cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cash and other drugs during the investigation. Both defendants face up to life in prison when they are sentenced in federal court.



Two Georgia men have been convicted in federal court for operating a cartel-linked drug trafficking organization that distributed fentanyl, methamphetamine and other illegal drugs throughout the Athens area.

What we know:

A federal jury found Josue Serda, 26, of Jefferson, and Gregory Robinson, 32, of Athens, guilty Wednesday following a trial in U.S. District Court in Athens. Both men face a maximum sentence of life in prison. Sentencing dates have not been scheduled.

According to federal prosecutors, Serda was convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, multiple fentanyl distribution charges, methamphetamine distribution, distributing methamphetamine where a person under 18 was present and possessing a firearm as an unlawful drug user.

Robinson was convicted of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, distributing fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and oxycodone, and maintaining a drug-involved premises.

A third defendant, Ariel Collins, 32, of Athens, was acquitted of maintaining a drug-involved premises.

Investigation uncovered drugs, guns

Dig deeper:

The FBI launched the investigation in 2024, alleging Serda and Robinson distributed fentanyl and methamphetamine supplied by a Mexican drug cartel throughout the Athens area.

In August 2025, 13 law enforcement agencies executed search warrants, including at Serda's home in Jefferson. Prosecutors said Serda initially refused to surrender and contacted an alleged drug supplier in Mexico, warning that the FBI was at his home and instructing a drug shipment to turn around.

Authorities said a search of the home uncovered numerous firearms, including armor-piercing ammunition.

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