Michael Warren Smith Jr., a 38-year-old Kalamazoo resident, has been sentenced to more than 27 years in federal prison for drug trafficking. Smith had pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, according to the office of Andrew Birge, acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan in Grand Rapids.
The Drug Bust and Evidence Found
The sentence comes after a federal search warrant was executed at Smith’s Kalamazoo home and apartment on October 11, 2023. Investigators discovered significant quantities of illicit drugs and firearms during the search.
At his Elmwood Street home, Smith was found with over 185 grams of fentanyl hidden in his pants. Authorities also found 388.5 grams of nearly pure methamphetamine in a bedroom. At his West Main Street apartment, investigators uncovered approximately five pounds of 99% pure methamphetamine, over 500 grams of fentanyl, 470 grams of cocaine, and five loaded firearms.
A Successful Operation and Strong Law Enforcement Response
Smith admitted to possessing the drugs with the intent to distribute them. Law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation included the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety.
“Mr. Smith’s sentencing should serve as a reminder that the DEA will relentlessly pursue those responsible for the distribution of illicit drugs,” said Andrew Lawton, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Detroit Field Division.
The Importance of the Case
The sentence reflects the significant impact of Smith’s drug trafficking activities and the efforts of law enforcement in preventing these drugs from reaching Michigan streets.
