Biloxi Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine Trafficking and Illegally Possessing Firearm

Gulfport, Miss. – Darrell Donnell McDonald, 39, of Biloxi, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden to 108 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release, for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst and by Special Agent-in-Charge Kurt Thielhorn, of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  McDonald also was ordered to pay an $8,000 fine and $200.00 in special assessments.  McDonald previously pled guilty on November 1, 2019.   

On May 1, 2017, the Biloxi Police Department received a citizen complaint that McDonald had been visiting his small rental storage unit 5-10 times a day and criminal activity was suspected.  Biloxi police responded to the complaint and noticed a strong odor of fresh marijuana emanating from the storage unit.  Police also obtained a copy of McDonald’s rental agreement and, later that same day, McDonald was caught by Biloxi Police closing the door of the storage unit (with the keys in his hand) while marijuana odor emanated from the unit.  A Biloxi Police narcotics canine team arrived, and the canine alerted outside the storage unit. 

Pursuant to a state search warrant, the rental unit was searched and the following items were found:  approximately 316 grams of cocaine, approximately 1,758 grams of marijuana, approximately $4,563 in cash, a loaded Hi-Point 9mm handgun, and other evidence of drug trafficking activity. 

McDonald had a criminal history of multiple narcotics felony convictions and one firearm related felony conviction.  Included in these felony convictions was his conviction in 2008, in the Circuit Court of Harrison County, for Possession of Controlled Substance With Intent to Distribute, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. 

U.S. Attorney Hurst commended the coordinated investigation by the ATF and by the City of Biloxi Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris.