Alabama Man Sentenced to Over 16 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Illegal Possession of a Firearm

Jackson, Miss. – James Lyles, 37, of Mobile, Alabama, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III to serve 195 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley with the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Lyles was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.

On January 25, 2018, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics agents were conducting surveillance on a residence in Jackson, Mississippi, believed to be involved in illegal drug distribution.   While conducting the surveillance, agents observed a Jeep Liberty depart the residence. The vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation.  The driver attempted to drive off, but was unable to do so. As a result, agents approached both sides of the vehicle and ordered the driver and passenger, James Lyles, out of the vehicle. While assisting Lyles out of the passenger side of the vehicle, agents discovered several bags of methamphetamine.  Agents also discovered a .22 caliber pistol in the passenger door where Lyles was sitting.  The methamphetamine was tested and determined to be 197 grams. 

The case is the result of an extensive investigation, dubbed “Drama Queen” targeting illegal methamphetamine distribution in central Mississippi.  The case was investigated by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Jones County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Police Department, Pearl Police Department and the Richland Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wansley.