Raleigh Man Convicted on Drug and Firearms Charges

Raleigh man convicted of federal drug and firearms charges.

A federal jury in Raleigh has found Andrew Hargett Jr., 46, guilty of possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and felon in possession of a firearm.

The evidence presented at trial established that Hargett regularly traveled to Atlanta, Georgia to obtain kilogram amounts of cocaine and transported them back to Raleigh, North Carolina for distribution. The investigation resulted in the seizure of over 2 ½ kilograms of cocaine, crack cocaine, $142,000.00 and a firearm.

According to the indictment, Hargett’s operation was a significant supplier of cocaine in the Raleigh area. The prosecution presented evidence that Hargett’s regular supply of cocaine was obtained from Atlanta, and that he would then distribute it in Raleigh.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), Nash County Sheriff’s Office, Wilson Police Department, Raleigh Police Department, and the Rocky Mount Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney James Kurosad prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

The jury’s verdict comes after a two-day trial before Chief United States District Judge James C. Dever III. At sentencing, set for the November 26, 2018 term of court, Hargett faces not less than 15 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release and up to an $8 million dollar fine.

The conviction of Hargett Jr. is a significant blow to the drug trade in the Raleigh area. It highlights the efforts of law enforcement to combat the sale and distribution of illicit substances.