Cedrick Exzavius Reese, a 45-year-old resident of West Columbia, has been sentenced to three years in federal prison after being found guilty of possessing crack cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, as well as illegally owning a firearm as a convicted felon.
The case began when a deputy from Richland County observed Reese’s vehicle speeding and failing to stop at a stop sign. During the traffic stop, Reese could not provide a driver’s license but consented to be searched. The deputy discovered suspected methamphetamine in a clear plastic bag in Reese’s waistband. Reese told the deputy that the drugs were for his personal use. A subsequent search of the car led to the discovery of a firearm, ammunition, crack cocaine, and fentanyl.
Reese’s prior convictions for drug offenses legally barred him from possessing any firearms.
United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis imposed a sentence of 36 months in prison on each count, with terms running concurrently. After serving his sentence, Reese will be subject to three years of supervised release on each count. He was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine. There is no possibility of parole under federal law.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative that brings together law enforcement agencies and community members to address violent crime and gun violence. According to the Department of Justice, on May 26, 2021 it launched an updated strategy for PSN focused on building trust within communities, supporting organizations working to prevent violence before it happens, prioritizing strategic enforcement actions, and measuring outcomes.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives worked alongside the Richland County Sheriff’s Department during the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon prosecuted the case.
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