Anthony Ward Irving, Methamphetamine and Heroin Drug Conspiracy, Oklahoma 2021

An Arizona man was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for his role in a methamphetamine and heroin drug conspiracy in Oklahoma.

Anthony Ward Irving, 43, pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy on November 25, 2020, and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan on Wednesday to 5 years in federal prison. Following his prison sentence, Irving will serve 5 years on supervised release.

In his written plea agreement, Irving admitted to conspiring with Tymalk Love, Casey Eastwood, and others to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine from January 2018 to February 2019. He also admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute heroin.

Irving acted as a “broker” for the transfer of the drugs between bulk distributors in Arizona and Love and his associates in Oklahoma and elsewhere. Irving admitted that he and his coconspirators coordinated drug deals using cell phones, drug couriers, and electronic transfers of cash. Irving received monetary compensation for his participation in the drug conspiracy.

The investigation into the conspiracy involved the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas E. Duncombe and Kevin C. Leitch prosecuted the case.

Irving is the latest defendant to be sentenced in the case. In December, Eastwood also pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy. Love, who led the conspiracy while incarcerated in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, pleaded guilty in June to drug conspiracy and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat methamphetamine and heroin trafficking in the state.

Defendant Name: Anthony Ward Irving

Criminal Charges: Drug Conspiracy

City and State: Arizona/Oklahoma

Exact Date: November 25, 2020 (plea), Wednesday (sentencing)

Sentence or Outcome: 5 years in federal prison, 5 years supervised release