Birmingham Man Sentenced to 65 Months in Prison on Drug Charges

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Birmingham man was sentenced last week for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and two counts of Distribution of Methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr.

United States District Court Judge Madeline Hughes Haikala sentenced Darius Emale Craig Jr., 23, to 65 months in prison.  Craig pleaded guilty to the charges in February.

According to the plea agreement, on July 13, 2021, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit made two controlled purchases of drugs from Craig. On July 13, 2021, Craig sold 24.58 grams of methamphetamine for $400 near the Holiday Inn on Airport Road in Birmingham. On August 17, 2021, Craig sold 20.96 grams of methamphetamine for $450 at the Kangaroo gas station near Roebuck Parkway and Hwy 79.

“Methamphetamine is the greatest drug threat in Alabama due to its availability, risk from abuse, and contribution to violence and other crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Escalona. “Prosecution of traffickers will help to reduce that threat and improve the quality of life in our communities.”

“The FBI is committed to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate those individuals or organizations that are distributing dangerous drugs, committing acts of violence, and fueling the addiction that destroys communities and families.” said FBI SAC Johnnie Sharp, Jr.

FBI investigated the case along with the Birmingham Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Kristy Peoples and Darius Greene prosecuted the case.