A federal jury in Tampa, Florida, has convicted Tryon Metteria Byrd IV of Valrico for his involvement in drug trafficking activities. Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announced the verdict, stating that Byrd was found guilty of conspiring to distribute and distributing methamphetamine and cocaine. Byrd is facing a minimum sentence of five years and could receive up to 40 years in federal prison. His sentencing is set for May 14, 2025.

During the trial, evidence revealed that Byrd and his associates distributed drugs from three residences in St. Petersburg. Byrd was reported to have sold drugs directly to undercover detectives from the St. Petersburg Police Department at a property owned by his family.

Byrd's co-conspirators, Eric L. Lemon, Eric Lekent Lemon Jr., and Dominic Giannantonio, had previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced for their roles in the conspiracy. Lemon received a sentence of 21 years and six months in federal prison, Lemon Jr. was sentenced to four years and three months, while Giannantonio was given an 11-year and three-month sentence.

The investigation into this case was conducted by the St. Petersburg Police Department along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan led the prosecution.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation aimed at dismantling high-level criminal organizations posing threats to the United States through a coordinated multi-agency approach led by prosecutors.