Detroit Man Convicted of Leadership Role in Drug Trafficking Operation

CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Emmitt Renand Richardson, 52, of Detroit, Michigan, was found guilty of multiple methamphetamine and fentanyl charges.

After a four-day trial, a federal jury convicted Richardson on six methamphetamine and fentanyl charges. According to court documents and statements made in court, Richardson was leading an organization responsible for the illegal sale and distribution of methamphetamine in Harrison County.

Richardson faces at least five and up to 40 years in prison for five of the charges and faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the remaining charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Cogar and Will Rhee prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.

Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.