A federal jury in Birmingham found Dimarcus DeSean Hodge, 34, guilty of drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms, Acting U.S. Attorney Catherine L. Crosby announced on Apr. 23.
The case is significant as it highlights ongoing efforts to address drug distribution and firearm offenses in the Northern District of Alabama, which serves more than 2.8 million people across 31 counties including Birmingham and Huntsville, according to the official website.
Hodge was convicted after two days of testimony before U.S. District Judge Liles C. Burke for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Evidence presented at trial showed that between October 26, 2023, and February 15, 2024, Hodge sold over 140 grams of methamphetamine and one gram of fentanyl to an undercover law enforcement source through controlled purchases. On February 21, officers executed search warrants on two vehicles belonging to Hodge where they recovered approximately four-and-a-half pounds of methamphetamine, more than an ounce of heroin, three firearms, ammunition, digital scales, cash totaling $1,790 and other items.
Due to multiple prior felony convictions in Jefferson County Alabama Hodge was prohibited from possessing any firearms at the time these crimes were committed.
The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) along with assistance from Leeds Police Department during the investigation phase; Irondale Police Department and Birmingham Police Department assisted with executing the arrest warrant. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alan S. Kirk and Ryan S. Rummage prosecuted the case.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama is part of the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website. The office prosecutes federal crimes such as this one while also defending civil cases involving the United States government or recovering funds lost due to fraud according to its official website. The office collaborates closely with law enforcement agencies throughout its jurisdiction according to its official website.
Broader efforts by this office include advancing community safety through public engagement initiatives according to its official website.
