Deon Lathel Gibson, a 40-year-old resident of Charleston, was sentenced on Mar. 18 to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to several charges including possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address gun violence and drug trafficking offenses involving repeat offenders.
According to evidence presented in court, agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration observed Gibson meeting with an individual known for drug trafficking activities in December 2023. After the meeting, deputies from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on Gibson. During the stop, Gibson attempted to fight multiple deputies before being secured and arrested. Authorities found nearly 447 grams of methamphetamine, a loaded .380 pistol, and $2,300 in cash inside his vehicle.
Gibson was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to previous convictions related to crack cocaine distribution. These prior convictions also made him eligible for an enhanced sentence under federal law. At the time of his arrest, he was out on state bond after being accused of killing two people in a vehicular hit-and-run incident.
United States District Judge Richard M. Gergel imposed the sentence of 20 years imprisonment followed by ten years of supervised release. There is no parole available in the federal system. The investigation involved the Drug Enforcement Administration, Charleston Police Department, and Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Lietzow prosecuted the case.
The sentencing underscores continued collaboration among local and federal authorities targeting violent crime and narcotics offenses.
