In a recent development, a man from Roscoe, Illinois, has been sentenced to nearly nine years in federal prison for his involvement in firearm and drug trafficking activities. XZAVIOR SMITH, 24, pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute, as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. The sentencing was carried out by U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston in Rockford, who imposed a sentence of eight years and ten months. Smith’s apprehension involved a high-speed chase and the recovery of drugs and a loaded Glock pistol. This case highlights the diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety.
Summary
A man from Roscoe, Illinois, named XZAVIOR SMITH, has been sentenced to nearly nine years in federal prison for drug trafficking and possessing a firearm. He pleaded guilty to knowingly possessing cocaine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute, as well as possessing a Glock 19 pistol in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The sentencing was carried out by U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston in Rockford, Illinois. Smith’s escape from a traffic stop, discovery of drugs and a firearm, and the assistance provided by various law enforcement agencies played a significant role in the case.
Background
XZAVIOR SMITH, a 24-year-old resident of Roscoe, Illinois, was apprehended and charged with drug trafficking and possession of a firearm. The investigation determined that Smith was involved in the distribution of cocaine and fentanyl in the area. These drugs are known to have significant detrimental effects on individuals and communities, leading to widespread addiction and violence.
Charges and Plea
XZAVIOR SMITH pleaded guilty earlier this year to the charges of possessing cocaine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. These charges carry severe penalties due to the serious nature of drug trafficking and the potential for violence associated with firearm possession. Smith’s guilty plea indicated his acknowledgment of these offenses and his willingness to accept responsibility for his actions.
Traffic Stop and Escape
On June 14, 2021, officers from the Freeport Police Department attempted to execute a traffic stop on XZAVIOR SMITH’s vehicle. However, Smith refused to pull over and instead accelerated, disregarding traffic signs while fleeing towards Durand, Illinois. The Stephenson County Sheriff’s Department joined the pursuit and attempted to stop Smith on Route 75. Despite their efforts, Smith continued to evade capture and reached speeds of up to 113 miles per hour.
Discovery of Drugs and Firearm
During the pursuit, XZAVIOR SMITH pulled into a private driveway and fled on foot. He abandoned bags containing cocaine and fentanyl, as well as a loaded Glock pistol with an extended magazine loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition. This evidence further established Smith’s involvement in drug trafficking and the possession of a firearm. The discovery of these illicit substances and the firearm added to the seriousness of his charges.
Sentencing
U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston presided over the sentencing of XZAVIOR SMITH. Considering the gravity of the crimes committed, Judge Johnston handed down a sentence of eight years and ten months in federal prison. This significant sentence reflects the court’s recognition of the threat posed by drug trafficking and the use of firearms in such criminal activities. The aim of the sentencing is to hold Smith accountable for his actions and to deter others from engaging in similar behavior.
Announcement of Sentence
The sentencing of XZAVIOR SMITH was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The announcement highlighted the successful prosecution of Smith, as well as the cooperation between multiple law enforcement agencies involved in his capture and investigation. The announcement serves to inform the public about the law enforcement efforts to combat drug trafficking and firearm-related crimes.
Assistance from Law Enforcement
During the pursuit and subsequent investigation of XZAVIOR SMITH, several law enforcement agencies played a crucial role. The Stephenson County Sheriff’s Office, the Freeport Police Department, the Roscoe Police Department, and the Beloit, Wisconsin, Police Department’s Crime Interdiction Team provided valuable assistance. These collaborative efforts demonstrated the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in apprehending and prosecuting individuals involved in drug trafficking and related crimes.
Related Content
The case of XZAVIOR SMITH is part of larger efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking, violence, and firearm offenses. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois has been proactive in pursuing individuals involved in these criminal activities. The successful prosecution of Smith reinforces the commitment of law enforcement to protect communities and hold accountable those who engage in illegal drug distribution and possess firearms for criminal purposes.
Contact Information
For more information about the case of XZAVIOR SMITH or other inquiries related to drug trafficking and firearm offenses, please contact:
- Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois
- Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI
Contact information for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois:
- Chicago: (312) 353-5300
- Rockford: (815) 987-4444