ANNISTON, Ala. – Jerrelle Quintez Gladden, 39, of Brooklyn, New York, will spend the next 27 years and six months behind bars after a federal judge handed down a 330-month sentence for drug and gun crimes. Gladden was convicted in September 2022 of possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm – a trifecta of trouble that sealed his fate.
The bust went down in January 2020 when law enforcement executed a state search warrant on a residence in Anniston. Inside, they found Gladden, already a convicted felon, holed up in a bedroom littered with the tools of his trade: digital scales coated with residue from methamphetamine, plastic baggies ready for distribution, and his personal belongings. Two baggies of the potent drug were found right there with him.
But the drugs weren’t the only contraband. Hidden behind the door of an adjoining room, officers discovered a folded chair concealing a treasure trove of illicit goods: more methamphetamine, a wad of U.S. currency, and two loaded firearms. One of those guns, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, had been reported stolen just eight days prior, adding another layer of severity to the charges.
U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona made it clear this sentencing is a statement. “This signifies our unwavering commitment to combat the threat of illegal drugs and firearms,” she said. “Together with our law enforcement partners, we strive for safer streets, and through our collective efforts, we will work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.” It’s a standard line, but the length of the sentence speaks volumes.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson echoed Escalona’s sentiment, praising the “collaborative efforts” of law enforcement. “Criminals do not take a break, and neither will we,” Watson stated, promising continued vigilance against narcotic dealers and illegal gun possessors. The ATF, along with the 7th Judicial Major Crimes Unit and the Anniston Police Department, spearheaded the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittney Plyler and Kristy Peoples successfully prosecuted the case, presenting the evidence that ultimately led to Gladden’s conviction and lengthy sentence. The case serves as a stark reminder that federal agencies are actively targeting those who seek to profit from the misery of drug addiction and the danger of illegal firearms. Gladden’s 330-month sentence is a clear signal: bring your poison and your guns to Alabama, and you’ll face a long, hard time.
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Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Weapons|Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Press Release
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