HARLAN, KY - Kentucky State Police announce that a joint investigation between Appalachia Narcotics Investigation (ANI), the Harlan County Sheriff's Office, the Drug Enforcement Agency and the KSP Drug Enforcement Special Investigations unit resulted in a 15-year sentence in a criminal drug trafficking case.
Steven Wayne Williams, 41, of Lynch, Ky., in Harlan County, has been sentenced to federal prison for conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Between December 2021 and August 2022, Williams was part of a criminal conspiracy that imported multiple kilograms of methamphetamine from Georgia to Harlan County. Williams was the "point man" for his contacts in Georgia. He arranged for his co-conspirator, Lawrence Lucas, to travel to Georgia and return to Kentucky with several kilos of methamphetamine to distribute in the region. Lucas was previously sentenced to 80 months in federal prison.
Under federal law, Williams must serve 85 percent of his sentence.
KSP Sergeant Jeremy Lee credited the collaborative effort between local, state, and federal agencies with the successful investigation and prosecution of Mr. Williams.
"This investigation represents a significant victory in our fight against illegal drugs," said Sgt. Lee. "This multi-agency investigation disrupted a dangerous supply chain, removed harmful substances from our streets, and sent a clear message to those who profit from illicit activities: we will hold you accountable."
Confidential crime tips can be reported through the Kentucky State Police website at https://www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/tip.
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