Tacoma’s Titus Dion Peterson, a repeat offender with a notorious criminal history, was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in prison for drug and gun crimes. The U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced the sentence following Peterson’s conviction at trial.
Peter-son, 34, has been convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine base (crack), four counts of possession of cocaine and cocaine base with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and witness tampering. His lengthy criminal history includes multiple convictions for drug dealing, assault, resisting arrest, and bank robbery.
In 2010, Tacoma Police officers arrested Peterson with baggies containing crack cocaine after noticing him toss the drugs upon seeing them. He failed to appear in court on those charges. Later, in October 2011, police found another ounce of crack cocaine during a traffic stop. An investigation by the FBI’s South Sound Gang Task Force turned up nine ounces of crack and powder cocaine, $23,000 in cash, and two firearms at Peterson’s apartment and storage unit.
While awaiting trial, Peterson attempted to interfere with the investigation through numerous phone calls to friends and family members. His actions led to his conviction for witness tampering. Following a three-day bench trial, Peterson was convicted on October 5, 2012.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s South Sound Gang Task Force, which includes officers from multiple law enforcement agencies. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory A. Gruber prosecuted the case.
U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle expressed his primary concern for public safety during sentencing, stating that he had ‘no confidence’ Peterson could change his ways and make a positive impact on society.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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