Santa Rosa County Drug Kingspin Sentenced to Federal Prison

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Three Santa Rosa County drug kingpins have been handed down federal prison sentences for their roles in a notorious trafficking operation. David Kennedy, 41; Michael McQueen, 51; and Roosevelt Jones, 52, all from Milton, Florida, face substantial time behind bars after being convicted of trafficking controlled substances.

United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced the sentences, emphasizing that their successful takedown was part of a broader effort to ‘Take Back America’ by combating drug traffickers. Kennedy received 15 years, McQueen 11½ years, and Jones 6½ years, with supervised release following.

Undercover operations, surveillance, and wiretaps enabled the seizure of drugs including cocaine, meth, fentanyl, and marijuana, as well as firearms and cash. This joint investigation involved agencies such as the DEA, ATF, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, Pensacola Police Department, and Florida Highway Patrol.

Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter highlighted the importance of partnerships in disrupting drug trafficking. Sheriff Bob Johnson echoed this sentiment, commending the joint effort for making communities safer.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide DOJ initiative aimed at eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations. The Northern District of Florida’s U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to fight such crime under the guidance of the Attorney General.

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