COLUMBUS, GA - The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has arrested Columbus attorney, Mark Shelnutt, on eight (8) counts of Distribution of a Controlled Substance. Shelnutt was arrested by agents today at the Columbus Government Center.

The GBI Columbus office initiated an investigation when a confidential informant provided information that Shelnutt was providing the informant with controlled prescription medication. During a three month investigation, Shelnutt provided the informant with Oxycodone, Aprazolam (trade name Xanax) and Hydrocodone on multiple occasions. The transactions were video/audio recorded and occurred at various locations in Columbus.

The controlled medication that Shelnutt was distributing is subject to being highly abused and addictive, especially in circumstances when it is not being prescribed and monitored by a licensed physician. Controlled medications can only be distributed or dispensed by licensed physicians, authorized medical practitioners or pharmacists.

Shelnutt was transported and turned over to the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office.

District Attorney Joe Hendricks, Appalachian Judicial Circuit, has been appointed as a special prosecutor by the State Attorney General’s Office. District Attorney Julia Slater requested the special prosecutor appointment in this case.

If anyone has any additional information related to this case, please contact the GBI Region 2 Columbus office at 706-565-7888.

#######

Contact Information:

Special Agent in Charge Rodney J. Wall - 706-565-7888