Fort Smith, Arkansas – A local man has been sentenced to over 11 years in federal prison for his role in a major drug trafficking operation. Marco Deandre Smith, 41, of Van Buren, was handed down a 135-month sentence by Chief United States District Court Judge P. K. Holmes, III on Tuesday.
According to court records, the investigation into Smith’s activities began on February 17, 2017, when officers with the Fort Smith Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle operated by Smith for a traffic violation. A search of the vehicle resulted in the officer locating marijuana and methamphetamine, with a total weight of 445.4 grams.
After Smith was indicted in the Western District of Arkansas in March 2017, he pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of a Controlled Substance, namely methamphetamine, with Intent to Distribute on May 9, 2017. This guilty plea marked the end of a lengthy investigation that involved the Fort Smith Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney Candace Taylor prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
Defendant: Marco Deandre Smith
Criminal Charges: Possession of a Controlled Substance, namely methamphetamine, with Intent to Distribute
City and State: Van Buren, Arkansas
Exact Date: February 17, 2017 (traffic stop); March 2017 (indictment); May 9, 2017 (guilty plea)
Sentence: 135 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release
Amounts: 445.4 grams of methamphetamine found in Smith’s vehicle
This case is a stark reminder of the dangers of drug trafficking and the importance of law enforcement working together to bring those responsible to justice. We will continue to work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and hold those who would seek to harm us accountable.
Smith’s 135-month sentence is a significant blow to those involved in the drug trade, and we hope that it will serve as a deterrent to others who would consider engaging in similar activities.
Key Facts
- State: Arkansas
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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