A Florida man has been sentenced to prison for his role in a federal marijuana charge in West Virginia, according to a statement from U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart.
Russell William Smith III, 37, of Florida, was sentenced to nine months in prison after pleading guilty to possessing marijuana with intent to distribute for remuneration, U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart announced.
Smith was arrested on June 4, 2018, in Kanawha County after Sergeant Brian K. Hammontree of the West Virginia State Police spotted a truck driving erratically in the Smith Creek area. The truck swerved off the roadway several times and jumped onto a sidewalk at one point, prompting the officer to initiate a stop.
Smith exited the truck without prompting and was found to be unsteady on his feet, admitting to having ‘had too much to drink.’ A breath sample later revealed his breath alcohol content was over twice the legal limit.
During the stop, Sergeant Hammontree asked Smith if there were any drugs in the truck, and Smith advised he had a large quantity of marijuana. The officer then retrieved a duffel bag from the bed of the truck, which contained multiple pounds of marijuana packaged in 17 separate bags.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew O. Inman handled the prosecution in the case.
U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart commended the investigation conducted by the West Virginia State Police, stating that ‘marijuana is increasingly potent and dangerous.’ He added that the prosecution will continue to vigorously enforce federal law in cases of illegal controlled substances.
The case is a reminder that law enforcement agencies in West Virginia will continue to crack down on those who engage in illegal activities, including marijuana trafficking. As the state struggles with the opioid epidemic, it is essential that those who sell and distribute other controlled substances are held accountable.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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