⏱ 2 min read
Stephen Sullens, a 29-year-old Columbus man, was caught with fentanyl and a loaded pistol near Saint Mary’s Catholic School in Marietta on July 18, 2024. Marietta police responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle and found Sullens in an alley behind a residence on 5th Street. A police canine alerted to the presence of drugs, and officers discovered fentanyl and a pistol with a loaded magazine. As a previously convicted felon, Sullens is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Sullens was originally indicted in June 2025 and was convicted of three counts as charged in a superseding indictment in July 2026. The verdict was announced after a trial that began on August 4 before U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson.
Sullens faces at least six years and up to life in prison. His sentencing will be determined by the court based on advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kevin W. Kelley and Nicole Pakiz.
The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Marietta Police Department, the Southeast Major Crimes Task Force, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). The agencies announced the verdict, highlighting the importance of cooperation in combating drug and firearms crimes.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: Ohio
- Location: OH
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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