A federal jury in Columbus, Ohio, has found two men guilty for their involvement in a narcotics distribution network. The operation distributed fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, methamphetamine, and other drugs. The government seized over $1.7 million, 50 firearms, and nine vehicles during the investigation.
David Price and Tavaryyuan Johnson were convicted following a trial that began on January 13, 2025. U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus Jr. presided over the proceedings.
Price was found guilty of all charges against him, including drug trafficking and sex trafficking offenses involving at least three adult victims. Johnson was convicted on multiple drug trafficking counts.
The case initially came to light in July 2022 when a multi-agency task force announced an indictment against 11 individuals for distributing drugs near a Columbus elementary school. A superseding indictment later included additional co-conspirators and expanded the list of drugs involved.
Price faces a minimum sentence of 25 years up to life imprisonment for his crimes, which include using violence and coercion against women to engage in sex acts under duress. Johnson faces a minimum sentence of 10 years up to life imprisonment for his role in the drug operation.
According to court documents and testimony, the conspiracy operated from January 2008 until its dismantlement by law enforcement in 2022. Drug-related activities occurred near Burroughs Elementary School.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker acknowledged the coordinated investigation led by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s task force alongside several local and federal agencies.
Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy Prichard and Emily Czerniejewski are prosecuting the case as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation aimed at disrupting high-level criminal organizations nationwide.