Rebecca C. Lutzko United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio | U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio
Maurice A. Stewart, 31, of Akron, Ohio, has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine trafficking operation that distributed drugs throughout Summit County and nearby areas. U.S. District Judge David A. Ruiz handed down the sentence after Stewart pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. After completing his prison term, Stewart will serve three years of supervised release.
The investigation began in October 2022 when agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) looked into suspected drug and firearms trafficking in Akron. Authorities discovered that Stewart and two others were working together to obtain large amounts of methamphetamine for sale across Northeast Ohio. During a search at Stewart’s home on West Long Street in Akron, agents seized nearly 380 grams of methamphetamine, over 87 grams of fentanyl, four cellphones, and a Glock semiautomatic pistol. Searches at other locations linked to his co-conspirators led to additional seizures including more drugs, a firearm, scales and paraphernalia used for drug distribution.
Stewart’s co-defendants are also serving federal sentences following their guilty pleas. Kevin R. McQuain received an eight-year and four-month sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy charges as well as possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Kenneth L. Pitman was sentenced to seven years and six months after pleading guilty not only to conspiracy but also being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The case was investigated by the ATF alongside the Portage County Sheriff’s Office Drug and Violent Crime Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Dangelo prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.
