A Youngsville man, Samuel McCoy Oakley, Jr., was sentenced to 19 years in prison for armed drug trafficking involving cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. The sentence was handed down following Oakley's guilty plea on June 10, 2024, to charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute substantial quantities of these drugs and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The investigation into Oakley's activities began in September 2022 when the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), along with other law enforcement agencies, targeted a drug-trafficking organization operating in the Eastern District of North Carolina. The investigation revealed that Oakley and his associates were distributing narcotics sourced from New York and New Jersey.
During the investigation, law enforcement observed individuals visiting Oakley's residence briefly before departing. Subsequent vehicle stops led to the discovery of marijuana and cash. Wiretap evidence captured conversations between Oakley and his co-conspirators discussing drug sales. In one instance in May 2023, Oakley discussed acquiring "knowledge," referring to fentanyl under that name. Following this conversation, a courier linked to Oakley traveled from Charlotte to his house before flying to New York. Upon returning to North Carolina, law enforcement stopped the courier's vehicle and found it contained over five kilograms of cocaine and 600 grams of fentanyl stamped with "Knowledge."
On July 19, 2023, authorities executed a search warrant at Oakley's residence seizing over two kilograms of cocaine from attic insulation along with firearms, ammunition, and more than $35,000 in cash.
Between July 2022 and July 2023, investigators attributed responsibility for over 168 kilograms of cocaine, seven kilograms of fentanyl, and approximately four kilograms of marijuana to Oakley.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) initiative aimed at dismantling high-level criminal networks through collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies.
Daniel P. Bubar announced the sentencing after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle delivered the sentence. The DEA led the investigation alongside local law enforcement partners while Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden prosecuted the case.
For further details on related court documents or information about this case (Case No. 5:23-cr-00247-BO-RN), visit the website for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or access PACER.