Career Offender Sentenced to More Than 26 Years in Prison on Drug Trafficking Charges

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – A federal judge today sentenced an Athens man on drug charges, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples.

U.S. District Court Judge Liles Burke sentenced Eric Cordelle Bass, 35, of Athens, to 322 months in prison.  Bass pleaded guilty in February 2023 to two counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Bass is a Career Offender based on prior felony convictions. The sentence reflects his status as a Career Offender.

“This sentence sends a message that armed drug dealers will face stiff consequences in the Northern District of Alabama,” said U.S. Attorney Escalona. “I am grateful to the FBI and Limestone County Sheriff’s Office whose efforts ensured that this career offender was brought to justice.”

According to the plea agreement, the Limestone County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at Bass’ residence on October 28, 2021. In Bass’ bedroom, investigators found approximately one pound of methamphetamine and two firearms. In addition, on March 16, 2022, Bass was found to be in possession of a bag containing methamphetamine and a firearm. Bass attempted to bribe the officers after the methamphetamine was discovered.

The FBI investigated the case along with the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Hundscheid prosecuted the case.