Tyquan M. Watson and Dezaneil D. Cosby Jr., both residents of Tallahassee, Florida, have been found guilty by a federal jury for their involvement in a large-scale marijuana distribution conspiracy. The verdict was announced following a four-day trial, as stated by Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
The trial revealed that Watson had been acquiring substantial quantities of marijuana weekly from California sources and distributing them in Tallahassee and nearby areas. Between September 24, 2023, and January 10, 2024, Watson reportedly purchased over 3169 pounds of marijuana, generating proceeds exceeding $2.4 million.
The investigation was carried out by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). On October 13, 2022, FDLE conducted a controlled purchase involving 28 pounds of marijuana from an associate who sourced it from Cosby's residence. Both Watson's and the associate's fingerprints were found on the packaging materials. Subsequently, on October 28, 2022, DEA agents executed a search warrant at Cosby's home where they confiscated 238 pounds of marijuana and a firearm.
Both men were convicted concerning the October 13 transaction. Additionally, Cosby faced conviction for possession with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana due to findings during the October search.
Watson and Cosby were apprehended on March 11, 2024. During this arrest at another Tallahassee location, authorities seized an additional 183 pounds of marijuana along with a firearm.
Sentencing is set for May 2, 2025; Watson will be sentenced at 11:00 am while Cosby's sentencing will occur at 2:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.
This case resulted from collaborative efforts between multiple agencies including DEA, FDLE, FBI, ATF&E Bureau, Tallahassee Police Department, and Bay County Sheriff's Office. The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorneys James A. McCain and Harley Ferguson.
The investigation was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) initiative aimed at dismantling high-level drug traffickers through coordinated efforts among various law enforcement bodies. Further details about OCDETF can be accessed online.
For public court documents or more information regarding this case or related matters within the Northern District of Florida's jurisdiction under the U.S Attorney’s Office visit their official website.