TAMPA, FL – Yaphet Martin, 38, of New Port Richey, Florida, is headed to federal prison for over twelve years after pleading guilty to a cocktail of serious federal offenses. U.S. District Judge William F. Jung sentenced Martin to 12 years and 7 months on charges of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The sentencing comes after Martin entered a guilty plea back in August 2024.
The bust unfolded on July 7, 2023, when Clearwater Police officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by Martin. A strong odor of marijuana wafting from the car gave officers probable cause to search. The search didn’t disappoint. Behind the center console, they discovered a small green camouflage bag packed with 3 grams of fentanyl, 7.66 grams of MDMA, and 3.48 grams of cocaine. The bag also contained tools of the trade: a digital scale, a glass pipe, and a hefty $3,182 in cash.
But the drugs weren’t the only illegal items in Martin’s possession. Officers also recovered a loaded firearm, complete with four rounds of ammunition. This discovery carried significant weight given Martin’s extensive criminal history. He already had four prior felony convictions on his record – forgery, first-degree robbery, delivering an imitation controlled substance, and a previous charge of felonious possession of a firearm. Federal law clearly prohibits individuals with felony convictions from owning firearms or ammunition.
Prosecutors successfully argued for an enhanced penalty due to Martin’s lengthy and violent criminal past. Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman presented evidence detailing his prior convictions, demonstrating a pattern of disregard for the law. The case was a collaborative effort between the Clearwater Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), showcasing a unified front against drug trafficking and illegal gun possession.
The forfeiture of assets seized during the arrest is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. This case isn’t just about one man; it’s part of a larger initiative known as Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN aims to unite all levels of law enforcement with the communities they serve, with the goal of reducing violent crime and gun violence. The Department launched a renewed focus on PSN in May 2021, emphasizing trust-building, community support, strategic enforcement, and measurable results.
Martin’s 12-year and 7-month sentence sends a clear message: dealing fentanyl and possessing firearms while being a convicted felon will result in serious federal consequences. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and gun violence in Florida and beyond.
RELATED: Fentanyl & Firearm: Martin Gets 12+ Years
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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