James Hughes, Drug Trafficking and Firearms Charges, Pennsylvania 2021

SCRANTON – In a shocking turn of events, James Hughes, a 33-year-old man from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to 132 months’ imprisonment, followed by four years on supervised release, for his role in a complex drug trafficking and firearms case.

According to court documents, Hughes was found to have possessed over 200 grams of methamphetamine and over 40 grams of fentanyl on May 12, 2021, at a hotel in Wilkes-Barre. The discovery of these substances led to a thorough investigation, which ultimately revealed that Hughes was also in possession of a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson handgun and ammunition.

Hughes’ actions were deemed to be in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities, and as a previously convicted felon, he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. The evidence gathered in this case was a testament to the effectiveness of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, a joint federal, state, and local initiative aimed at reducing violent crime.

The PSN program has proven to be a crucial tool in identifying and addressing the most pressing violent crime problems in communities across the country. Through this program, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to develop comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of crime.

The case against Hughes was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny P. Roberts prosecuted the case, bringing the necessary evidence to the court to secure a guilty verdict.

Defendant: James Hughes

Criminal Charges: Drug Trafficking and Firearms Charges

City and State: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

Exact Date: May 12, 2021

Sentence or Outcome: 132 months’ imprisonment, followed by four years on supervised release

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