Cocaine Trafficking Kingpin Gets 70 Months in Prison

A South Bend man is headed to prison for over five and a half years after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

Robert Hollins Jr., 41, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty to 70 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Hollins was found guilty of possessing with intent to distribute cocaine, a serious crime that threatens the safety and well-being of our communities.

According to documents in the case, in November 2023, police recovered more than 350 grams of cocaine, 3 firearms, and more than $56,000 in Hollins’ home in South Bend. At a second location Hollins maintained in South Bend, police recovered more than 154 grams of fentanyl and 3 firearms.

This case is a stark reminder of the dangers of cocaine trafficking and the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat this crime. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the South Bend Police Department and the Mishawaka Police Department, investigated the case and brought Hollins to justice.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joel Gabrielse, who worked tirelessly to ensure that Hollins was held accountable for his crimes. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

The violent crime reduction strategy launched by the Department in May 2021 has been a game-changer in the fight against cocaine trafficking and other violent crimes. By fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results, we are making progress in keeping our communities safe.

As we continue to work towards a safer future for all, it’s essential that we hold individuals like Robert Hollins Jr. accountable for their crimes. The sentence handed down in this case serves as a reminder that cocaine trafficking will not be tolerated in our communities.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly to investigate and prosecute those who engage in cocaine trafficking and other violent crimes, ensuring that our communities remain safe and just.