Kenneth Orlin Simmons, Jr., Methamphetamine Trafficking, North Carolina 2024

Nash County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Over 22 Pounds of Methamphetamine

A federal judge has sentenced Kenneth Orlin Simmons, Jr. to 20 years in federal prison for selling more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in Nash County, North Carolina. Simmons, 36, pleaded guilty to the crimes on February 14, 2024.

According to court documents and evidence presented in court, in July 2022, Simmons sold over a kilogram of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in Nash County. Law enforcement later obtained a search warrant for Simmons’ residence, where they seized 10 kilograms of methamphetamine, nearly 1,000 grams of marijuana, a stolen Glock .40 caliber handgun, a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun, an AR-15 rifle, a 29-round magazine with 22 .40 caliber rounds, and a 96-round drum magazine.

The Nash County Sherriff’s Office, the DEA, and the ATF investigated the case, with Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Aria Q. Merle prosecuting the case. U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle praised the sentence, stating that drug dealers who flood communities with deadly methamphetamine and arm themselves with guns pose a serious threat to public safety. Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone also praised the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, DEA, and ATF in holding Simmons accountable.

Simmons has a history of felony convictions, including two counts of felony abduction of children and two counts of sexual battery. This sentence sends a clear message that those who poison communities and endanger the lives of children and families will face severe consequences.

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina has more information on the case, available on their website or through PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-00015.

The case is a reminder of the dangers of drug trafficking and the importance of law enforcement working together to shut down these operations and protect citizens.

Defendant: Kenneth Orlin Simmons, Jr.

Criminal Charges: Selling more than 50 grams of methamphetamine

City and State: Raleigh, North Carolina

Exact Date: February 14, 2024

Sentence: 20 years in federal prison

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