Defendant’s Guilty Plea Marks Major Blow to Huntington’s Opioid Epidemic

A Huntington man has pleaded guilty to distributing a deadly synthetic opioid, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing fight against the city’s opioid crisis. Marcus Allen Johnson, also known as ‘Mook,’ 40, of Huntington, admitted to selling approximately 53.76 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl to a confidential informant on January 14, 2025.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Johnson conducted the transaction and arranged it beforehand. The sale occurred in the informant’s vehicle parked on 10th Avenue in Huntington. Johnson’s guilty plea sets him up for a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million.

Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office, praising their efforts in taking down Johnson. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing, while Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams will prosecute the case.

The case was brought as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS), a targeted enforcement initiative aimed at reducing the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high-impact areas. By taking down Johnson and disrupting his operations, law enforcement agencies hope to make a meaningful dent in the city’s opioid epidemic.

Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on December 8, 2025. His guilty plea serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of opioid distribution and the importance of holding those responsible accountable. As the city continues to grapple with the opioid crisis, the guilty plea of Marcus Allen Johnson marks a significant step forward in the fight against addiction and overdose.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia will continue to work tirelessly to combat the opioid epidemic and bring those who have contributed to it to justice. By doing so, they hope to create a safer, healthier community for all residents of Huntington and surrounding areas.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Drug Trafficking

Tyreses Katino Bosha, Methamphetamine Distribution, Alabama 2023

Jan 20, 2026

Drug Trafficking

Jason Roon, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Nevada 2023

Jun 15, 2023

Drug Trafficking

Nolan Rogers, Possession of Fentanyl, New York 2019

Jul 3, 2019

Drug Trafficking

Albert Hewins, Possessing Contraband, Ohio 2014

May 6, 2015