Canal Winchester man sentenced to more than 15 years in prison for drug, gun, fraud crimes

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Thomas O. Crowell, 35, of Canal Winchester, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 188 months in prison for committing narcotics, firearms and financial fraud crimes. A federal jury convicted Crowell in January 2024.

Crowell, who is also known as “T-Mack,” was a significant drug trafficker in the Columbus area who was investigated by multiple law enforcement agencies.

According to court documents and trial testimony, Crowell possessed with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine and marijuana in June 2021. During a search warrant of Crowell’s residence, investigators discovered fentanyl and cocaine hidden in the grill in the backyard. Throughout the house, Crowell kept drug packaging material and drug cutting agent.

Crowell also illegally possessed firearms in his home, namely, a rifle and a Glock. Crowell is a previously convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

Finally, Crowell was also convicted of wire fraud for fraudulently obtaining COVID-relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding by falsely claiming to own a trucking business called “Thomas Crowell.” In April 2021, Crowell applied for the PPP loan and received nearly $20,000. 

Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant; and Hilliard Police Chief Michael Woods announced the sentence imposed today by Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Pakiz and Damoun Delaviz are representing the United States in this case.

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