MONROE COUNTY, GA – A multi-state investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, dubbed “Operation Fall Guy,” led to the arrest of 15 individuals linked to a widespread theft and check fraud scheme.
Launched on March 20, 2025, the operation targeted suspects involved in altering 272 checks from 14 victims and stealing from several banks across 15 states, officials said Friday. The fraud resulted in a loss of approximately $2.1 million.
The 15 arrested suspects hail from Georgia, North Carolina, and Ohio, with 29 more outstanding warrants as authorities continue searching for additional suspects.
Those arrested include:
Lennel Burton, College Park
Demonte Grier, Atlanta
Derrian Styles, Atlanta
Keyon McCrary, Atlanta
Ollicia Kennedy, Riverdale
Ebonie Powell, North Carolina
Rashun Johnson, Byron
Jemarcus Little, Fort Valley
Ardonish Adside, Macon
Zychenia Paschal, Milledgeville
Arienna Yarbrough, Eatonton
Blake Ford, Locust Grove
Brandon McCants, Oglethorpe
Willie McCall, Warner Robins
Antonio Boston, booked into Houston County Jail
Additionally, Arif Farooki is awaiting extradition from Ohio.
Charges against the suspects include identity theft, fraud, forgery, and printing fictitious checks.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continues to pursue the remaining 29 suspects involved in this extensive theft ring.
