Edward Collins, Methamphetamine Distribution, North Carolina 2023

A North Carolina man has been sentenced to 121 months in federal prison for his role in a massive methamphetamine distribution operation. Edward Collins, 22, of Briscoe, North Carolina, was sentenced on April 12, 2023, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.

According to court documents, Collins was involved in the distribution of at least 10 kilograms of methamphetamine between April 2021 and the time of his arrest. On May 14, 2022, Duplin County Narcotics detectives were aware that Collins was delivering a large amount of methamphetamine to a residence in Mt. Olive, North Carolina.

When Collins arrived at the residence, detectives approached the car and Collins attempted to flee, but law enforcement was able to prevent Collins from leaving. Inside the car, they found 848 grams of pure methamphetamine.

Collins’ sentence was announced by the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, Michael Easley, after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II.

The investigation into Collins’ methamphetamine distribution operation was a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security, and the Duplin and Sampson County Sheriff’s’ Offices.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Severo prosecuted the case. Collins’ sentencing brings to a close a complex investigation that uncovered a significant amount of methamphetamine being distributed in the region.

Collins’ exact criminal charges include conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, as well as possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.

A copy of the press release announcing Collins’ sentencing can be found on the Eastern District of North Carolina website. Related court documents and information can be found on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina website or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:22-CR-00097-M-BM-2.

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