Yaphet Martin, Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking, Florida 2023

A Tampa, Florida man has been sentenced to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, as well as possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

According to court documents, Yaphet Martin (38, New Port Richey) was pulled over by Clearwater Police Department officers on July 7, 2023. When officers approached the vehicle, they smelled marijuana emanating from the vehicle. Officers searched the vehicle and located a small green camouflage bag behind the center console containing what laboratory testing would later confirm to be 3 grams of fentanyl, 7.66 grams of MDMA, and 3.48 grams of cocaine.

The bag also contained a digital scale, glass pipe, and $3,182 in cash. Officers also recovered a firearm loaded with four rounds of ammunition from the vehicle.

At the time, Martin had four prior felony convictions including forgery, robbery in the first degree, delivering an imitation controlled substance, and felonious possession of a firearm. He is therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. In addition, his prior drug and crime of violence convictions subjected him to an enhanced penalty.

Martin pleaded guilty in August 2024. This case was investigated by the Clearwater Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.

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.

Yaphet Martin, 38, of New Port Richey, was sentenced to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, as well as possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

Defendant: Yaphet Martin

Criminal Charges: Possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon

City and State: Tampa, Florida

Exact Date: July 7, 2023 (crime date), August 2024 (plea)

Sentence or Outcome: 12 years and 7 months in federal prison

Dollar Amounts: $3,182 in cash

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/convicted-felon-sentenced-more-12-years-possession-intent-distribute-fentanyl-and