Fentanyl Dealer Johnson Faces 20 Years Behind Bars

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Kanawha County man is facing the music for his role in peddling fentanyl to unsuspecting users. Travell Lamar Johnson, 45, of Big Chimney, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl in federal court, marking a major victory for law enforcement in their ongoing fight against the opioid crisis.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 14, 2023, Johnson sold approximately 3.5 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant at a Charleston gas station. Johnson admitted to the transaction and to arranging it beforehand with the confidential informant. The brazen deal highlights the dangers of fentanyl on our streets and the need for increased vigilance from law enforcement and citizens alike.

Johnson’s plea comes on the heels of his co-defendant, Alexis Nicole Davis, 26, of Charleston, who pleaded guilty on May 2, 2024, to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Davis awaits sentencing, but her accomplice in crime is set to face the music in August. Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on August 7, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine.

United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Charleston Police Department-Special Enforcement Unit and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT). Their tireless efforts have brought this case to a successful conclusion, and we are grateful for their dedication to keeping our communities safe.

United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing, while Assistant United States Attorney Alexander A. Redmon is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-177.

As the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our nation, it is imperative that we hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Johnson’s guilty plea is a step in the right direction, but there is still much work to be done. We will continue to shine a light on the darkest corners of our society and bring justice to those who have been affected by these heinous crimes.