HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A Huntington man who was caught with fentanyl earlier this year pleaded guilty to a federal drug crime. James Lennon Pace, 32, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on March 16, 2021 at Pace’s residence located on Charleston Avenue in Huntington. Pace was present just prior to the search and arrested on an unrelated warrant. During the search, officers seized fentanyl, three firearms, and items used to prepare fentanyl for distribution. Pace admitted that he possessed the firearms and that he intended to distribute the fentanyl.
Pace faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on November 1, 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams handled the prosecution.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-00104.
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