Phillip Washington, III, also known as ‘Lil’ Phil,’ was sentenced on July 23 to 20 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine. U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber handed down the sentence after Washington, age 33 of Marion County, was found guilty on April 2.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team executed a search warrant at Washington’s residence on May 13, 2024. The search uncovered 3,034 grams of actual methamphetamine, 885 grams of fentanyl, and 302 grams of cocaine. Much of the drugs were located in a duffle bag placed on the dining table.
Authorities said multiple scales and other items consistent with packaging and distributing controlled substances were also found in the home. The residence was equipped with a video-recorded security system that captured footage showing Washington bringing the duffle bag containing controlled substances into his home.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announced the sentencing.