MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Four men who were part of a 61-count RICO, theft and commercial burglary indictment pleaded guilty last week just before their trial was set to begin.
According to a news release from Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney Anita Howard’s office, 36-year-old Antuane Simmons, 55-year-old Frankie Barnes, 35-year-old Cornelius Redding and 44-year-old Marcus Robinson participated in an organized crime spree between December 23, 2019 and April 28, 2020, stealing from convenience stores, pharmacies, liquor stores, small businesses and salons.
The DA’s Office says Barnes was the first to plead guilty and agree to testify against his co-defendants.
“With the knowledge they would be facing the testimony of their co-conspirator, the remaining Defendants thereafter made the decision not to face the jury for their crimes,” the release stated.
Simmons, who was charged in 36 of the 58 burglary accounts, was sentenced to 20 years with the first 15 to be served in prison.
Robinson, who was charged in 28 of the 58 burglary counts, was sentenced to 20 years, with the first 10 to be served in prison.
Redding, who was charged in 15 of the 58 burglary counts, was sentenced to 20 years, with the first four to be served in prison.
Barnes, who was charged with 19 of the 58 burglary counts, was sentenced to 20 years, with the first three to be served in prison.
“I echo the words of Senior Assistant District Attorney Kyle Owenby—there truly is NO honor among thieves when the time is upon them to account for their crimes or to face harsh consequences,” DA Anita Howard said.