Keith Blakely, Prescription Pill Trafficking, West Virginia 2021
A West Virginia man, Keith Blakely, 42, of New York, has pleaded guilty to a federal drug crime. According to the United States Attorney, Mike Stuart, Blakely, also known as 'Bumpy,' admitted to participating in a drug trafficking organization that operated in and around Princeton, West Virginia.
Between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, Blakely was involved in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone, oxymorphone, and hydromorphone. He was charged as a result of a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation.
'Blakely had oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, guns, and cash,' said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. 'He's the latest of a number of prescription pill dealers held accountable as a result of Operation X-Nation.'
Blakely admitted to making several drug distributions to informants that he now knows were cooperating with law enforcement officers. During a search of his apartment on August 30, 2019, officers found large quantities of oxymorphone, oxycodone, and hydromorphone pills, three firearms, and approximately $69,962 in cash.
As part of his plea agreement, Blakely agreed to forfeit the cash and the firearms to the United States. He faces up to twenty years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million when he is sentenced on June 1, 2021. After serving a term of imprisonment, Blakely will serve at least three years of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, which is composed of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Mercer County Sheriff's Department, the Princeton Police Department, and the Bluefield Police Department.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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