Richardson Sentenced to Over 18 Years for Armed Meth Trafficking

Tampa, FL – In a stark reversal of fortune for career criminal Michael D. Richardson Jr., U.S. District Judge Charlene E. Honeywell has sentenced the 25-year-old Hillsborough County resident to an unprecedented 18 years and 4 months in federal prison.

The sentence was imposed following Richardson’s conviction on charges of possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, as well as possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug-trafficking activities. Richardson entered his guilty plea on November 2, 2016, marking a swift conclusion to his case.

Richardson’s criminal spree began in May 2015 when law enforcement apprehended him after spotting him at the helm of a stolen vehicle. Inside, they found distribution quantities of crack cocaine and methamphetamine. Just two months later, Richardson eluded police when they approached him in another stolen car. After a foot chase, Richardson was caught with multiple baggies of methamphetamine hidden in his possession.

Further investigation revealed that between May and July 2015, Richardson had been in possession of 24.6 grams of crack cocaine, 60 hydrocodone pills, and 203 grams of methamphetamine. His criminal history was riddled with prior felony convictions including robbery, robbery with a firearm, and battery.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Plant City Police Department collaborated to investigate this case. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory T. Nolan led the prosecution effort, ensuring that Richardson faced the full weight of federal law.

This sentence sends a powerful message about the consequences of engaging in armed drug trafficking. The justice system has delivered its verdict, leaving no room for leniency for Richardson’s actions.

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