FBI Nabs DC Drug Ring Leaders in Major Bust

Seven alleged kingpins of a D.C.-based drug ring were nabbed by the FBI in a massive sweep that targeted PCP and fentanyl trafficking. The operation, spanning from the District of Columbia to Maryland and Los Angeles, resulted in the seizure of 18 firearms, including an AR-Style rifle, two kilograms of suspected narcotics, and over $50,000 in cash.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced that the seven defendants include Leonard Edwards, 52; Eric “Marbury” Prather, 43; Thomas Wilton Hancock, Jr., 43; Sarda Smith, 36; Michael Thomas, 49; Reginald Lassiter, 39; and Darryl Riley, 39. They are charged with conspiracy to distribute narcotics, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and illegal re-entry into the country.

The Knox Place neighborhood has seen a surge in violence, with at least five homicides reported in the past year. The ring’s alleged leader sourced drugs from Baltimore-based co-conspirators who imported from California, including 17 gallons of PCP intercepted earlier this year in Kansas.

Six defendants face 10-year mandatory minimum sentences for drug quantities, while two are staring down 15-year terms. An additional defendant remains at large and is considered a fugitive.

The bust follows a year-long investigation by the FBI Washington Field Office with support from the DEA and MPD. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sitara Witanachchi, Matthew W. Kinskey, and John Parron are prosecuting the case.

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