Barnes Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Cocaine Trafficking and Firearm Charges

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A 34-year-old Buffalo man has been sentenced to 120 months in prison for his role in a cocaine trafficking ring that spanned several years.

Spiwe Barnes, 34, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm, as reported by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The investigation revealed that Barnes and co-defendant Anthony Avery obtained cocaine from multiple sources in Ohio and Michigan.

The investigation, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, in collaboration with the Buffalo Police Department and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, uncovered a vast network of cocaine distribution in the Buffalo area. According to the investigation, Barnes and Avery distributed between five and 15 kilograms of cocaine in the Buffalo area between early 2010 and June 14, 2011.

Barnes and his co-defendants, Anthony Avery, Linda Johnson, and Tyree Bishop, were all convicted for their roles in the cocaine trafficking ring. Barnes was sentenced to 120 months in prison by Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.

The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation that spanned multiple agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Buffalo Police Department, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office also provided assistance in the case.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against cocaine trafficking in the Buffalo area. The sentencing of Spiwe Barnes brings closure to the victims and their families, and serves as a warning to those who would attempt to engage in similar activities.

Barnes was sentenced on June 17, 2011, to 120 months in prison for his role in the cocaine trafficking ring. His conviction and sentencing bring an end to a lengthy investigation and prosecution of the case.

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