Authorities Seize Drone, Drugs Intended for Georgia Prison

Two suspects arrested after traffic stop near Hancock State Prison

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Authorities in Georgia have arrested a man and woman in connection with the seizure of a drone, $1,000 in cash, 11.5 pounds of marijuana, and other contraband items believed to have been destined for Hancock State Prison near Sparta. The arrests and seizure followed a traffic stop near the Hancock-Baldwin County line on February 5.

Why it matters

The attempted smuggling of contraband into prisons is an ongoing issue that raises concerns about security, safety, and the ability of inmates to access prohibited items. This incident highlights the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement agencies to disrupt these types of smuggling operations and maintain order within the prison system.

The details

During the traffic stop, deputies from the Hancock County Sheriff's Department detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A search uncovered a drone valued between $20,000 and $25,000, as well as the cash, drugs, and other items like cellphones, tobacco, and tools that are prohibited in prisons. The two suspects, Timothy Lamar Massengale and Angela Renee Dinkins, were arrested at the scene and taken to the Hancock County Law Enforcement Center.

  • The traffic stop and seizure occurred on February 5, 2026.
  • The suspects were arrested at the scene of the traffic stop in the Beulah area.

The players

Hancock County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the traffic stop and initial investigation.

Milledgeville Police Department

Assisted the Hancock County Sheriff's Department in the investigation, including providing officers and a K9 unit.

Timothy Lamar Massengale

A 35-year-old man from LaGrange, Georgia who was arrested in connection with the attempted prison drop.

Angela Renee Dinkins

A 35-year-old woman from Columbus, Georgia who was arrested in connection with the attempted prison drop.

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What they’re saying

“We came over to assist the Hancock County Sheriff's Office.”

— Maj. Linc Boyer, Commander of the road patrol division with the Milledgeville Police Department

What’s next

Investigators with the Georgia Department of Corrections are assisting the Hancock County Sheriff's Office with the ongoing investigation.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of preventing the smuggling of contraband into prisons, which can compromise security and enable illicit activities among inmates. The collaborative response by local law enforcement agencies demonstrates their commitment to disrupting these smuggling operations and maintaining order within the prison system.