Michael P. Drescher Acting United States Attorney for the District of Vermont | U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont
A Detroit man has been indicted on federal drug charges in Vermont. On January 15, 2026, a grand jury charged Terry Dawayne Catchings, 31, with two counts of distributing cocaine and cocaine base, and one count of possessing cocaine with intent to distribute.
Catchings pleaded not guilty during his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle. Judge Doyle ordered that Catchings remain detained while awaiting trial.
Court documents state that Catchings distributed the drugs on December 23 and December 30, 2025, at a location in Vermont. On January 7, 2026, Vermont State Police stopped Catchings for speeding on Interstate 89 in Randolph. A search of his vehicle led to the discovery of about 114 grams of cocaine hidden inside the ceiling lining.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office noted that the indictment is based on allegations and that Catchings is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison for each count. The final sentence would be set by the District Court according to federal sentencing guidelines and statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt recognized the work of several law enforcement agencies: "I commend the investigatory efforts of the Morristown Police Department, the Vermont Drug Task Force, the FBI, and the Vermont State Police."
Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill is prosecuting the case. Defense counsel for Catchings is Kevin Henry.
