Asheville Man Sentenced to 11 Years for Drug Trafficking Following Investigation
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A recent court ruling has left a mark on the Asheville community after local law enforcement cracked down on drug trafficking operations in the area. Christopher DeShawn Nelson, a 42-year-old resident of Asheville, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges related to trafficking methamphetamine.
Confidential Informant Leads to Arrest
The investigation into Nelson’s activities began in late June 2022 when authorities became aware of his involvement in managing a drug and gun trade centered around Hillcrest Apartments in Asheville. To gather evidence, law enforcement enlisted the help of a confidential informant (CI). This CI made several drug and gun purchases from Nelson over a period of time, revealing the alarming extent of his operations.
On July 19, 2022, the informant arranged to buy a 9mm firearm along with methamphetamine from Nelson, spending a total of $1,130 during the exchange. This purchase, which took place at the Hillcrest Apartments, allowed law enforcement to build a solid case against Nelson. Over the course of the investigation, records show that he sold more than 88 grams of methamphetamine and three firearms to the CI from June 28 to August 18, 2022.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Fast forward to August 25, 2023, when Nelson pleaded guilty to distributing five grams or more of actual methamphetamine. His sentencing was held on September 12, where U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger handed down the 11-year prison sentence, which will be followed by five years of supervised release. Interestingly, this sentence will kick in only after Nelson serves a 30-month state sentence he is currently undergoing for an earlier drug conviction.
The Collaboration Behind the Case
This case highlights the cooperative efforts of various law enforcement agencies to tackle drug-related crimes in the area. Dena J. King, the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, along with Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), all played vital roles in the announcement of this significant conviction.
Chief Michael Lamb of the Asheville Police Department also took part in the announcement, demonstrating the strong collaborative spirit among law enforcement agencies focused on keeping the community safe from illegal drugs and violence.
Moving Forward
This case serves as a powerful reminder that illegal activities involving drugs and firearms will not be tolerated in Asheville. Authorities are committed to continuing their efforts to ensure a safer environment for all residents. With ongoing collaborations and investigations, the community can expect further actions against those who seek to disrupt the peace.
The impact of Nelson’s actions sparked concern among local residents. However, it also showcased the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies working together to tackle crime head-on. As community members reflect on this ongoing battle against drug trafficking, the hope remains that such strong law enforcement can foster a brighter and safer future for Asheville.
