James Walker Stewart, 38, has been sentenced to a decade in prison after being found guilty of drug trafficking offenses. Stewart was apprehended during a traffic stop in Atmore, Alabama, on November 18, 2023. Agents discovered half a kilogram of bulk fentanyl, alongside methamphetamine and paraphernalia in his possession. Stewart confessed to obtaining the fentanyl in Atlanta, Georgia, with Zachary Heaton Thaggard and transporting it to Pensacola, Florida.
Stewart also admitted to coordinating the fentanyl transaction with Justin Brian Melton, who managed their dealings from an Alabama prison using an illicit cell phone. Evidence of Stewart's drug-trafficking activities was found on his seized cell phone, including text messages, pictures, and videos.
United States District Judge Kristi K. DuBose sentenced Stewart to a 120-month prison term. Upon release, Stewart will undergo a 10-year term of supervised release, with conditions that include drug testing and treatment. Although no fine was imposed, Stewart is required to pay $200 in special assessments. Melton and Thaggard have already received prison sentences of 210 months and 30 months, respectively, for their involvement in the conspiracy.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello from the Southern District of Alabama. The investigation was a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller handled the prosecution.