Branden Jones, Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking, Maryland 2018

Baltimore, Maryland - In a major blow to the city's heroin and fentanyl trade, 21-year-old Branden Jones was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for his role in a large-scale conspiracy.

According to the federal indictment, Jones conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl in Baltimore and elsewhere between January 2017 and December 13, 2018.

Jones' plea agreement revealed that he participated in a drug trafficking organization that operated a 'drug shop' in the 1400 block of Kuper Street and in the area of West Pratt and South Calhoun Streets, both in South Baltimore. The organization conducted hand-to-hand sales of drugs to customers in those areas.

Jones was captured on video surveillance of the drug shop participating in the drug distribution activities and discussed his participation in the drug shop's activities on recorded telephone calls. During one of the calls, he discussed selling 52 packs of heroin or fentanyl and stated that he made $1200 that day. A pack typically contains 50 doses of heroin or fentanyl.

Jones also admitted to possessing a Hi-Point firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and collecting drug proceeds from lower-level members of the organization. He even posted pictures of himself with large amounts of cash on his social media accounts.

Jones' sentencing was the result of an investigation by the FBI and the Baltimore Police Department. Eighteen other defendants were also convicted as members of the organization, with seven, including Jones, receiving sentences ranging from 70 months to 11 years in federal prison.

United States Attorney Robert K. Hur praised the FBI and Baltimore Police Department for their work in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary Stendig, Charles Austin, and Michael Hanlon.

Mandatory Facts:

Defendant: Branden Jones

Criminal Charges: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin

City and State: Baltimore, Maryland

Exact Date: January 2017 - December 13, 2018 (sentencing date not specified)

Sentence: 10 years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release

Dollar Amount: $1200

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/pr/baltimore-heroin-dealer-sentenced-10-years-federal-prison-0