Bud Hembree, Fentanyl Trafficking, Kentucky 2022

Lexington, Ky. - In a major blow to fentanyl traffickers, 49-year-old Bud Hembree of Richmond, Ky. has been sentenced to 230 months in prison for his role in a large-scale fentanyl trafficking conspiracy.

According to a plea agreement, Hembree was arrested on December 14, 2020, with approximately 17 grams of fentanyl on his person. While in jail, Hembree directed his co-defendants to distribute fentanyl, further entangling him in the conspiracy.

Bud Hembree pleaded guilty in May 2022, marking a significant milestone in the case. His co-defendants have already been sentenced for their roles in the conspiracy, with sentences ranging from 36 months to 255 months in prison.

Co-defendants include Leon H. Benson, who received 105 months in prison, followed by six years of supervised release; Shanquenta V. Bulley, who received 36 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release; Claudia D. Gibson, who received 37 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release; Justin M. Howell, who received 255 months in prison, followed by eight years of supervised release; Tiffany A. McCormick, who received 87 months in prison, followed by six years of supervised release; Joseph W. McElroy, who received 240 months in prison, followed by six years of supervised release; and Misty D. Riddell, who received 120 months in prison, followed by eight years of supervised release.

Under federal law, Hembree and his co-defendants must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Upon his release from prison, Hembree will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for six years.

The investigation was a collaborative effort between the DEA, KSP, Madison County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force, Richmond Police Department, Berea Police Department, and Madison County Sheriff’s Office. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Kiebler.

Bud Hembree, 49, of Richmond, Ky., was sentenced on Tuesday to 230 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. The sentence is a significant blow to Hembree and his fellow co-defendants, who have been held accountable for their roles in the conspiracy.

The case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of fentanyl trafficking on communities across the country. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edky/pr/last-defendant-sentenced-large-fentanyl-trafficking-conspiracy