Pocola Meth Dealer Bryant Gets 30 Months Federal Time

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – Duane Ray Bryant, 31, of Pocola, Oklahoma, is headed to federal prison for 30 months after being convicted of distributing methamphetamine. The sentence, handed down by U.S. District Judge Ronald A. White, will run consecutively to state time Bryant is already serving, meaning the Pocola man isn’t getting a break. He’ll also face three years of supervised release after he finally finishes his time.

Bryant was found guilty of Possession With Intent To Distribute Methamphetamine, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) & 841(b)(1)(C). The charges stem from a January 29, 2017 incident within the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The indictment alleged Bryant knowingly and intentionally possessed the drug with the clear intent to peddle it for profit.

The bust was the result of a joint investigation by the Sallisaw Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). But the net didn’t stop at the Oklahoma state line. Law enforcement agencies in Arkansas were also involved, indicating Bryant’s operation wasn’t limited to a single state. This wasn’t some small-time operation; it was a regional poison pipeline.

“Methamphetamine ruins lives, families, and communities,” stated United States Attorney Brian J. Kuester. “Those that deal drugs do so for their profit without regard to the destruction it causes.” Kuester made it clear this conviction isn’t just about taking one dealer off the street, it’s about sending a message: profiting from misery won’t be tolerated.

Assistant United States Attorney John David Luton successfully prosecuted the case. Bryant is currently in custody awaiting transfer to a federal facility where he’ll begin serving his non-paroleable sentence. No word yet on where exactly Bryant will be locked up, but it’s a safe bet it won’t be a vacation.

The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking operations in Oklahoma and beyond. This conviction serves as a reminder that despite the challenges, law enforcement is working tirelessly to stem the tide of drugs flooding our communities – and that those who profit from addiction will be held accountable.