FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 15, 2011
HUNTINGTON MAN SENTENCED TO TEN YEARS IN PRISON ON FEDERAL DRUG CHARGES
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – John Pinkney, also known as “Jabu,” 41, of Huntington, was sentenced today to 10 years in prison by United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers for distribution of crack cocaine. Pinkney admitted that on June 30, 2010, he sold crack cocaine to an undercover officer in exchange for $20. The sale took place on the 1700 block of 9th Avenue in Huntington. Pinkney further admitted that on various occasions, he acted as a middle man for others in the sale of crack cocaine and he also admitted to obtaining crack for resale from an individual on at least 25 occasions. The defendant also admitted distributing approximately 12 ounces of crack cocaine at a business located in the Huntington area. The defendant admitted that he is responsible for distributing at least 150 grams of crack cocaine but less than 500 grams.
The investigation was conducted by the Huntington Violent Crimes and Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Greg McVey handled the prosecution.
This case is being brought as part of the Drug Market Intervention (DMI) initiative. The Drug Market Intervention initiative was established in October of 2010 through a partnership between the Office of U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin, the Huntington Police Department, along with support from the Fairfield West Improvement Council, the Fairfield Crime and Safety Committee and several state and local agencies. The initiative is primarily aimed at closing down open-air drug markets that breed crimes of violence and disorder.
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