Hampton Hampton resident Virginia Lemoyne Williams, 44, received a sentence of 26 years and 10 months in federal prison for both illegal gun possession and cocaine trafficking.
U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen ordered the sentence, which brings an end to a multi-year investigation into Williams’ extensive drug trafficking and unlawful weapons ownership.
A Long Trail of Criminal Activity
Between June 2018 and his arrest on October 14, 2022, Williams allegedly plotted with others to manufacture, distribute, and possess massive amounts of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, according to court documents. His acts were exposed when the Newport News Police Department carried out a controlled drug buy.
On October 30, 2019, officials carried out a search warrant on Williams’ residence and cars following the controlled purchase. Authorities had to break into the house after knocking for many minutes. They found Williams inside, along with his intimate partner and two kids, aged three and twelve.
About 50 grams of heroin and fentanyl, 45 grams of cocaine, other illegal drugs, a pill press, digital scales, ten phones, almost $3,000 in cash, and a stolen gun with 14 rounds of ammunition hidden in a bathroom floor vent were all found during the search.
Subsequent Arrest and Additional Evidence
Williams was accused by a federal grand jury on August 10, 2022, for his actions in 2019. Officers tried to arrest Williams in October 2022, but he resisted. When agents busted through his door, they found drugs and equipment used to manufacture them right there.
Following the acquisition of a search warrant, they found around 45 grams of methamphetamine, two grams of crack cocaine, and five grams of cocaine powder and fentanyl. Additionally, they seized three phones, five loaded firearms, and processing materials.
A History of Criminal Behavior
Williams was found guilty of manslaughter in 1999, which is at least as far back as his criminal history extends. He was accused of wearing body armor, driving a stolen car while awaiting trial, and possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute in 2000.
When Williams committed his most recent offenses, he was under court supervision due to a prior conviction for drug trafficking.
The Eastern District of Virginia’s United States Attorney, Jessica D. Aber, emphasized the case’s significance in the fight against gun and drug trafficking.
Steve R. Drew, the chief of Newport News Police; Jimmie Wideman, the chief of Hampton Police; and Jarod Forget, the special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division, joined her in announcing the punishment.
The case, which was prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Julie Podlesni, demonstrates how local and federal law enforcement authorities worked together to address drug-related offenses.
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.