A Houston man has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations. U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs announced the sentencing of Derrick Wayne Roberson, 32, who pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone handed down the 235-month sentence on December 19, 2024.
The court was informed that law enforcement began investigating a drug trafficking organization in Houston and East Texas in 2023. Roberson was identified as a member of this group, distributing methamphetamine, heroin, a fentanyl analogue, and trafficking firearms. He transported contraband from Houston to East Texas and sold large quantities of drugs along with firearms, including one equipped with a "glock switch," which allows it to function as a machine gun.
Roberson's criminal history includes felony convictions for robbery, theft, and evading law enforcement with a vehicle. As a felon, he is barred from possessing firearms or ammunition.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies. PSN targets violent offenders while supporting prevention and reentry programs to achieve lasting crime reduction.
The investigation involved the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations, and the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter prosecuted the case.