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Meth Kingpin Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – Joseph Gentry, a 34-year-old man from Low Gap, North Carolina, was sentenced this week to 121 months in federal prison for his role in a major methamphetamine conspiracy that distributed thousands of pounds of the drug into Wythe County, Carroll County, Pulaski County, Grayson County, the City of Galax and part of North Carolina.
Gentry, who previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, was the final non-fugitive defendant to be sentenced in connection with the case. The investigation, which was conducted by the Virginia State Police, the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office, the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, the Galax Police Department, the Carroll County Sherriff’s Office, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration, revealed that Gentry and his co-conspirators brought more than 1,800 pounds of methamphetamine into the area between 2010 and 2015.
“These individuals brought thousands of pounds of methamphetamine into the Western District of Virginia from the West Coast and Mexico,” said United States Attorney John P. Fishwick Jr. “They imported this poison into our communities and profited off the addiction of others. It is a testament to the cooperation and professionalism of the law enforcement agencies that devoted the time and resources necessary to take down this conspiracy.”
The investigation, which was a long-running operation, resulted in the conviction of more than 40 defendants. Three defendants, Erika Ortiz, Olivia Moreno and Bianca Aroche, have been charged as being part of the conspiracy but remain fugitives.
Assistant United States Attorney Ashley B. Neese prosecuted the case for the United States. The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of federal, state and local law enforcement to take down large-scale drug trafficking organizations and bring those responsible to justice.
The case is a reminder that the consequences of methamphetamine distribution are severe and far-reaching. The use of this poison can lead to addiction, overdose, and even death. The efforts of law enforcement and prosecutors to take down large-scale drug trafficking organizations like this one are a crucial step in preventing these tragedies and making our communities safer.
Key Facts
- State: Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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