Beckley, WV – Ronald Lavaughn Mason, 46, of Beckley, was sentenced to nearly 12 years in federal prison on Friday for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base (crack), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia reported. Mason’s sentencing stems from his involvement in a large drug trafficking organization that operated in Beckley and surrounding areas, distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack.
Mason admitted to coordinating drug transactions, facilitating deliveries, and allowing pickups from his residence between April and May 2024. He worked closely with at least 11 other individuals, playing a significant role in the distribution network.
One key event took place on April 9, 2024, when Mason sold a half-ounce of controlled substances to co-defendant Tilford Joe Bradley Jr. during a meeting in Beaver, which was observed by law enforcement. A search of Mason’s home on May 30, 2024, led to the seizure of 540 grams of cocaine, 324 grams of fentanyl analogue, 228 grams of fentanyl, and $10,293 in cash.
Mason admitted to possessing the drugs with the intent to distribute them. With two prior federal convictions for drug trafficking in the Southern District of West Virginia, Mason’s history in the illegal drug trade factored into his sentencing.
Mason and Bradley were among 12 individuals indicted for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack between June 2023 and May 2024. All 12 defendants have pleaded guilty, with several awaiting sentencing.
In addition to his prison sentence, Mason will serve three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term, as announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
