Richmond County man sentenced to 15 years in prison for drug and gun charges

AUGUSTA, Georgia – Kelvin Laron Howard, a 68-year-old Augusta resident, was sentenced to nearly 15 years in federal prison following his conviction on several charges related to drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession. U.S. District Court Judge J. Randal Hall imposed the 175-month sentence after Howard was convicted by a jury of possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted person. Criminal.

Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, noted the significance of the conviction, noting that Howard was a major distributor of illegal drugs in the Augusta area. The sentencing reflects a zero-tolerance policy toward armed drug dealers in the community. In addition to his prison sentence, Howard will be fined $2,500 and serve three years of supervised release, without the possibility of parole.

The charges stem from an extensive investigation by the Richmond County Sheriff's Office, which identified Howard as a major heroin distributor. During a search of his apartment, law enforcement discovered significant quantities of heroin – enough for more than 700 doses – as well as a drug scale, packaging materials, nearly $1,000. cash and a loaded semi-automatic pistol.

Beau Kolodka, assistant special agent in charge of the Atlanta Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, emphasized the importance of prosecuting violent criminals to enhance community safety. Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree also commented on community support for law enforcement efforts, noting that Howard's arrest and conviction during a jury trial highlighted local support for repression of illegal activities.

Howard's conviction is considered a critical step in reducing drug violence and illegal gun possession in the Augusta area, contributing to safer community environments.