Baltimore, Maryland – Hugh Emerson Berry, Jr., a 41-year-old from Hagerstown, Maryland, received a 78-month sentence in federal prison for participating in a narcotics and firearm trafficking network. In January 2025, Berry admitted guilt to charges of conspiracy to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, along with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, made the sentencing announcement alongside Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Frederick, Postal Inspector in Charge Damon Wood from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service's Washington Division, Superintendent Roland L. Butler, Jr. from Maryland State Police (MSP), and Colonel Paul Joey Kifer, Chief of Police of the Hagerstown Police Department (HPD).
The ATF, HSI, and MSP initiated an investigation into the trafficking network in May 2023 within the mid-Atlantic region. The authorities found Berry and his group involved in narcotics and firearms sales throughout Maryland. Undercover investigators conducted controlled drug transactions involving heroin, fentanyl, and crystal meth. Berry, previously convicted and prohibited from firearm possession, was also found offering firearms and a machine-gun conversion device.
From May to October 2023, at approximately 10 meetings, Berry conducted sales involving heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, firearms, ghost guns, firearm magazines, and a machine-gun conversion device with an undercover detective.
This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration across law enforcement levels, fostering community trust, supporting preventive community organizations, and implementing strategic enforcement priorities.
The case is also part of the Strike Force Initiative, which involves permanent multi-agency task force teams. The Baltimore Strike Force targets violent drug trafficking, money laundering, and transnational criminal organizations. The Baltimore Strike Force includes agents and officers from multiple federal, state, and local law enforcement bodies.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the investigative efforts of the ATF, HSI, USPIS, MSP Criminal Enforcement Division, and HPD. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Simpkins prosecuted the case.
For further information regarding the Maryland U.S. Attorney's Office, visit their website at www.justice.gov/usao-md.
