Lancaster Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine

RICHMOND, Va. – Dayton M. Waddy, 34, of Lancaster County, Virginia, pleaded guilty today to a charge of possession with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of cocaine base, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(iii).

Dana J. Boente, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; and Karl C. Colder, Special Agent in Charge for Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Field Division, made the announcement after the plea was accepted by U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney, Jr.

Waddy was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 20, 2015, and faces a maximum penalty of forty years and a minimum of five years in prison when sentenced on June 1, 2015. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

According to a statement of facts signed by Waddy and filed with his plea agreement, on October 6, 2014, a Lancaster County Sheriff’s Deputy pursued a vehicle driven by Waddy after Waddy attempted to elude the Deputy at a high rate of speed.  Waddy ultimately crashed the vehicle in a ditch and fled on foot.  The Deputy approached the vehicle and found on the front passenger seat a wallet containing Waddy’s identification.  Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department deputies subsequently searched the vehicle pursuant to a search warrant and recovered several personal documents belonging to Waddy; approximately 4.5 ounces of crack cocaine; a scale, spoon, and knife, all having cocaine residue on them; and $9,000 in cash.  Waddy was on federal supervised release for a previous drug conviction at the time of the offense. 

This case was investigated by the DEA and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen E. Anthony is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

A copy of this press release may be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:15cr14