Michael Henderson, Methamphetamine Trafficking, West Virginia 2022

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A massive methamphetamine trafficking operation was brought to a grinding halt when Michael Henderson, 34, of Michigan, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in West Virginia. The shocking case unfolded in the early hours of March 3, 2022, when law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Henderson was a passenger in downtown Charleston.

During the traffic stop, a police K-9 alerted to the presence of controlled substances in a duffel bag belonging to Henderson. Officers searched the bag and found approximately 5 pounds of methamphetamine. The devastating discovery marked a turning point in the investigation, leading to Henderson’s guilty plea.

With the guilty plea, Henderson now faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a $20 million fine. The harsh penalties are a stark reminder of the severity of methamphetamine trafficking and the importance of maintaining a safe and law-abiding community.

United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT). The MDENT team played a crucial role in unraveling the complex web of narcotics trafficking, ultimately leading to Henderson’s downfall.

United States District Judge Irene C. Berger presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Monica D. Coleman is prosecuting the case. The case serves as a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies in West Virginia to combat the scourge of methamphetamine trafficking.

The case has been assigned Case No. 2:22-cr-65. Interested parties can access related court documents and information on PACER by searching for the case number.

As the investigation continues, one thing is certain – the fight against methamphetamine trafficking will not be won overnight. But with the dedication and perseverance of law enforcement agencies, the community can rest assured that justice will be served.

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