U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs | U.S. Department of Justice
A Houston man has been sentenced to federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations. U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs announced that Derrick Wayne Roberson, 32, received a 235-month sentence from U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on December 19, 2024.
Roberson pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. The court was informed that starting in 2023, law enforcement investigated a drug trafficking organization operating from Houston into East Texas. Roberson was identified as a member of this organization, distributing methamphetamine, heroin, and a fentanyl analogue while also trafficking firearms.
As part of his activities, Roberson transported contraband from Houston to East Texas and sold large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. He also sold firearms, including one equipped with a "glock switch," which allows it to function as a fully automatic weapon.
Roberson's criminal history includes felony convictions for robbery, felony theft, and evading law enforcement with a motor vehicle. These prior convictions prohibit him from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
The case was prosecuted under the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, which is part of the Department of Justice’s efforts to reduce violent crime through evidence-based strategies. PSN involves collaboration among various stakeholders to address violent crime issues in communities by focusing on the most violent offenders and supporting prevention and reentry programs.
The investigation involved the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations, and the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter prosecuted the case.
