James Melvin Harbison, Methamphetamine Distribution, Alabama 2021
Baldwin County Man Sentenced to More Than Twelve Years for Methamphetamine Distribution
A Baldwin County man has been sentenced to 151 months in prison for methamphetamine distribution in Mobile, Alabama. James Melvin Harbison, 55, was found accountable for 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine ice during the sentencing hearing.
Harbison pled guilty to a seven-count indictment charging him with specific instances of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine with no plea agreement with the United States in September 2021. The United States called five witnesses who testified about their involvement with and knowledge of Harbison's drug distribution activities in Baldwin County over many years.
The witnesses testified consistently that Harbison was distributing between 2 to 4 ounces of methamphetamine per week. Harbison testified on his own behalf during the hearing, claiming he was little more than a drug user. At the conclusion of the testimony, the judge found the government witnesses credible and Harbison not credible.
Harbison will serve concurrent terms of supervised release totaling 5 years upon his release. Special conditions of his supervision include drug testing and treatment, mental health counseling and treatment, and a model search condition. No fine was imposed, but the judge ordered that Harbison pay $700 in special assessments.
The case was investigated by the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office, the Baldwin County Drug Task Force, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Gloria Bedwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Defendant: James Melvin Harbison
Criminal Charges: Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
City and State: Mobile, Alabama
Date: 2021
Sentence: 151 months in prison, concurrent terms of supervised release totaling 5 years
Dollar Amount: $700 in special assessments
Key Facts
- State: Alabama
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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