James Garfield Charles, Drug Trafficking, Kentucky 2022

LEXINGTON, Ky. – In a blow to the city’s opioid crisis, two men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a massive methamphetamine and heroin trafficking operation.

James Garfield Charles, 52, of Lexington, was sentenced to 380 months (approximately 31.67 years) in federal prison, while Vincent Adams Vassor, 55, of Los Angeles, received a 320-month (approximately 26.67 years) sentence. Both men were convicted of various drug trafficking charges in January 2022.

According to evidence presented at trial, Charles distributed methamphetamine and provided others with the substance for their distribution between January 2021 and June 2021. Law enforcement made a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Vassor on February 8, 2021, which led them to Charles, who supplied the drugs. On June 8, 2021, law enforcement arranged a controlled purchase of three pounds of methamphetamine, and after obtaining a search warrant, they found an additional five pounds of methamphetamine and distribution quantities of multiple controlled substances, including fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana.

Charles was convicted of Conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking. Vassor was convicted of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Under federal law, both men must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences. Upon their release from prison, they will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for five years.

The investigation was conducted by the DEA and KSP. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Todd Bradbury.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against opioid trafficking in Kentucky and the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement.

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