An Owensboro, Kentucky man has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for methamphetamine distribution and firearms offenses. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Sheila G. Lyons of the DEA Chicago Field Division.
Court documents reveal that Montae Goodnight, aged 37, received a sentence comprising 12 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. His charges include distributing methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. On November 29, 2022, Goodnight distributed over 50 grams of a methamphetamine mixture. By January 20, 2023, he was found possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute it along with a Taurus model 740 Slim .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol and ammunition.
Goodnight's previous felony convictions prohibited him from firearm possession. He had been convicted on several occasions: robbery in the second degree on August 22, 2006; conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute crack cocaine on April 7, 2008; trafficking in a controlled substance on October 2, 2013; and possession of controlled substances on June 29, 2018—all occurring in Daviess Circuit Court or United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky.
The investigation leading to this sentencing was conducted by the DEA Evansville Resident Office with assistance from the Owensboro Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold from the Bowling Green Branch Office prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. Launched on May 26, 2021, PSN emphasizes building trust within communities while supporting organizations that prevent violence and setting strategic enforcement priorities.
There is no parole available within the federal system.
