Investigations

On August 4, 2022, John Travis Ross, a former inmate at Mississippi Department of Corrections (MS-DOC) and Gangster Disciple member, was sentenced in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi to 8 months of incarceration, 3 years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. Ross was also ordered to attend an inpatient substance abuse treatment and outpatient treatment during the supervised release time period.

 

Ross was previously indicted on July 13, 2021, for violations related to using a UAS to smuggle controlled substances and contraband into a state correctional facility located in Rankin County, Mississippi. Ross piloted a UAS without an airman's certificate or registration to introduce narcotics and other contraband into the correctional facility. Ross was on parole when the criminal violations took place. 

 

After Ross’ arrest by DOT-OIG agents, Ross was arrested again on state charges in Warren County, Mississippi for aggravated trafficking of methamphetamine. The Federal conviction will be noted in the state case for relevant conduct.

 

DOT-OIG conducted this investigation with assistance from MS-DOC and the FAA Law Enforcement Assistance Program.