Maleeka Gilbert, Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl, Nebraska 2025

Omaha, NE - A Washington state resident has been sentenced in federal court for her role in a fentanyl distribution scheme.

Maleeka Gilbert, 23, of Federal Way, Washington, was sentenced on February 19, 2025, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. handed down a 120-month prison sentence.

Gilbert's co-defendant, Damar Johnson, 21, of Tukwila, Washington, was also sentenced on February 14, 2025, to 120 months in prison, but consecutive to a 60-month sentence for possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

There is no parole in the federal system, meaning Gilbert and Johnson will serve their sentences without the possibility of early release. After completing their prison terms, they will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Additionally, they will forfeit $16,020.11 in United States currency, which was determined to be drug proceeds.

The investigation began on March 31, 2023, when law enforcement conducted a traffic stop near Grand Island, Nebraska. Gilbert was driving a Dodge Durango, and Johnson was a passenger. The deputy initiated the stop due to a reported road rage incident.

During the stop, the deputy smelled marijuana coming from inside the vehicle and conducted a search of the vehicle. In the center console, the deputy located a firearm and $16,020.11 in cash. In the back of the vehicle, on the driver's side, a pink duffle bag containing approximately 10,000 fentanyl pills was discovered.

Johnson claimed responsibility for the firearm, but there was no evidence to suggest Gilbert knew of its existence. The currency was deemed to be proceeds from or used to facilitate the distribution of fentanyl.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ne/pr/washington-man-and-woman-sentenced-conspiracy-distribute-fentanyl