An Albany resident, Roderick Terrell Ferrell, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison for drug trafficking offenses. The 37-year-old was classified as a career offender due to his extensive criminal history, which includes robbery by force and making terroristic threats. U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner handed down the sentence on June 25, following Ferrell's guilty plea to one count of cocaine distribution in October 2024. In addition to the prison term, Ferrell will undergo six years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney William R. “Will” Keyes emphasized the commitment to prosecuting repeat offenders: “Defendants with long criminal records who consistently ignore the law will find their cases in federal court.” Jae W. Chung from the DEA Atlanta Division highlighted the agency's dedication to community protection, stating that "our communities remain under attack by career criminals."
The FBI and Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) were also involved in the investigation, working alongside local law enforcement agencies like the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. FBI Atlanta Special Agent Paul Brown expressed pride in collaborating with local partners to secure convictions at the federal level where penalties are harsher and parole is not an option.
The case against Ferrell was built on information from confidential sources indicating his involvement in cocaine distribution supplied by a co-conspirator from metro-Atlanta. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at another dealer’s residence and seized cocaine linked to Ferrell, who had sold at least 18 ounces of powder cocaine.
Further investigations revealed that Ferrell laundered approximately $383,057 through various channels despite having no legitimate income sources. These funds were used for luxury purchases and investments.
Ferrell's prior felony convictions include charges related to robbery by force and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Redavid.
