Darnell Jackson, known as "Major Change," was sentenced to 20 years in prison for solicitation to commit murder and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. United States District Judge Nitza I. Quiñones Alejandro delivered the sentence, which includes three years of supervised release.

Jackson's conviction followed a five-day trial that concluded on February 28, 2023. The jury found him guilty of using interstate commerce facilities for a murder-for-hire scheme and possessing ammunition illegally.

The plot originated from an ongoing state drug trafficking investigation. On July 19, 2021, Jackson attempted to arrange the killing of another person through cell phone communications. He offered $5,000 for the act and shared a photo of the intended victim. The plan was set to be executed on July 21, 2021.

That evening, Jackson received false information that the murder had been completed and planned to meet with the individual involved in the plot for payment. However, law enforcement intercepted him near 65th Street & Guyer Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia. Jackson was found with a loaded "ghost gun" and was arrested immediately.

U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero commented on the case: “If you’re willing to casually order a hit — if you have so little respect for human life — you forfeit your right to walk around free with everyone else.” She emphasized that Jackson's sentence holds him accountable and reaffirmed their commitment to prosecuting violent offenders.

Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Philadelphia, remarked on law enforcement's success: “By orchestrating this egregious plot, Jackson underestimated both the capability of law enforcement to uncover his actions and our unwavering commitment to protecting citizens from violence.”

The FBI and Philadelphia Police Department conducted the investigation with Assistant United States Attorney Justin Ashenfelter leading prosecution efforts.