Ricky Lee Kennedy, Methamphetamine Possession, Georgia 2014

Ricky Lee Kennedy, 32, of Augusta, Georgia, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. There is no parole in the federal system, meaning Kennedy will spend two full decades behind bars for his crimes.

The sentencing took place earlier this week at the United States District Court, with Judge J. Randal Hall presiding over the case. Kennedy had pleaded guilty to the charges, which were brought as part of Project Ceasefire, a joint firearms initiative between the U.S. Attorney's Office, the ATF, and local law enforcement agencies.

The evidence presented during Kennedy's guilty plea and sentencing hearings revealed that on July 29, 2014, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office received information that Kennedy would be bringing methamphetamine from Atlanta to the Columbia County area for distribution. Investigators from the CCSO and the Harlem Police Department worked together to stop Kennedy, where a drug-canine alerted on his vehicle, revealing over 400 grams of pure methamphetamine and two loaded firearms.

Kennedy had two prior serious drug convictions, which added to the severity of his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Nancy C. Greenwood prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

The case was investigated by the CCSO and the ATF. For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.

Kennedy's crimes were a serious threat to the community, and his sentence serves as a reminder of the consequences of such actions. The Project Ceasefire initiative aims to combat gun crime by targeting violent felons and drug dealers who illegally possess firearms and narcotics.

Ricky Lee Kennedy's case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of methamphetamine possession and distribution. His 20-year sentence is a testament to the dedication of law enforcement agencies in bringing those responsible to justice.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdga/pr/augusta-resident-receives-20-years-prison