James E. Lee, Crack Cocaine Trafficking, Missouri 2018

Kansas City Man Caught in Crack Cocaine Trafficking Scheme

A Kansas City, Missouri, man has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for his role in a crack cocaine trafficking operation. James E. Lee, 45, was handed a 12-year and 7-month prison sentence without parole by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays.

According to court documents, Lee's troubles with the law began on July 26, 2016, when law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence. Lee reportedly jumped out a second-story window in an attempt to evade capture, but was eventually taken into custody after a short foot chase.

During the search, officers seized a Springfield .40-caliber handgun, a Taurus .45-caliber revolver, 18 grams of crack cocaine, $710, and two digital scales. Lee's involvement in the trafficking operation continued until December 10, 2018, when he pleaded guilty to possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute.

Lee's record is riddled with prior convictions for distributing crack cocaine, including a prior federal conviction. This disturbing pattern of behavior has led to a harsh sentence, one that will keep Lee behind bars for nearly 13 years.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther, who worked closely with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to bring Lee to justice.

Lee's crimes have caused harm to his community, and it is only fitting that he faces severe consequences for his actions. The people of Kansas City can rest easier knowing that this trafficker is off the streets, and that justice has been served.

Mandatory Facts:

Defendant/Respondent: James E. Lee

Criminal Charges: Possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute

City and State: Kansas City, Missouri

Exact Date: July 26, 2016 (search warrant executed), December 10, 2018 (plea entered)

Sentence or Outcome: 12 years and 7 months in federal prison without parole

Dollar Amounts: $710 (seized during search)

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmo/pr/kc-man-sentenced-trafficking-crack-cocaine