⏱ 2 min read
Deionte Deard Bratton, a 44-year-old Chesapeake man, was caught selling cocaine, fentanyl, and guns in a series of controlled purchases by law enforcement between October 17, 2023, and November 14, 2023. Bratton, who cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition due to previous felony convictions, sold four guns and a significant amount of cocaine and fentanyl during this period. The transactions took place in Chesapeake, Virginia, and were part of a larger investigation involving the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Norfolk Police Department.
Bratton’s downfall began when he received fentanyl from Kenyon Thomas, 43, of Norfolk, which he then sold to undercover agents. Thomas, who also had previous felony convictions, was sentenced to eight years and seven months in prison for his role in the crime. The case against Bratton and Thomas is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating violent crime and drug trafficking.
On April 15, Bratton was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The sentence reflects the seriousness of Bratton’s crimes and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat gun trafficking and drug distribution in Virginia.
The investigation and prosecution of Bratton and Thomas demonstrate the effectiveness of collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies in combating crime. The ATF and Norfolk Police Department worked together to gather evidence and build a case against the two men, resulting in significant prison sentences and the removal of illegal guns and drugs from the community.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Drug Trafficking
- Defendant: Virginia
- Location: VA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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