BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Nineteen individuals have been charged in two federal indictments tied to a large-scale drug trafficking conspiracy involving methamphetamine and fentanyl across Alabama.
According to federal authorities, all 19 defendants are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute illegal narcotics between February and December 2025. Fifteen of those charged also face additional counts for using a communication device to facilitate drug trafficking.
The indictments name multiple individuals from Birmingham, Bessemer, and surrounding areas, including Hakim Rashad James, Ranisha Tolbert, Kelvin Lewis, Walter Tate, and others. A second indictment includes suspects such as Antonius Sanders, Zestra Williams, Anthony Harris, and several additional defendants.
Investigators say the conspiracy involved significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, with approximately 30 pounds of narcotics seized during the operation. Court filings outline varying levels of involvement, with some defendants accused of distributing large quantities—ranging from 5 grams to over 500 grams—of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
The investigation was carried out by the FBI and DEA in coordination with multiple local agencies, including police departments and sheriff’s offices across Jefferson County and surrounding areas.
Federal prosecutors say the case is part of a broader Homeland Security Task Force initiative aimed at dismantling organized criminal networks and drug trafficking operations within the United States.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany T. Byrd and Carson R. Gilbert.
