While law enforcement agencies have traditionally focused on stationary drug operations, mobile drug trafficking has emerged as a growing challenge across the United States. In a recent case from Mobile, Alabama, two individuals have received federal prison sentences for their roles in a sophisticated drug trafficking operation that spanned multiple counties.
Marcus Williams, 35, and Sarah Chen, 29, were sentenced on March 15, 2024, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Williams received a 15-year sentence, while Chen was sentenced to 8 years in federal prison.
Two drug traffickers face lengthy federal prison terms after pleading guilty to conspiracy and possession charges in Alabama.”
The investigation began in January 2023 when law enforcement received tips about a mobile drug operation using rental vehicles to transport narcotics between Mobile and Birmingham. Through surveillance and controlled buys, agents documented the pair’s pattern of renting different vehicles weekly to avoid detection while moving significant quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine.
“These defendants employed sophisticated methods to evade law enforcement, but their tactics ultimately failed,” said DEA Special Agent James Martinez. The operation came to an end on June 12, 2023, when officers intercepted Williams and Chen during a traffic stop on I-65. A search of their rental vehicle disclosed 12 kilograms of methamphetamine and 3 kilograms of cocaine concealed in modified fuel tanks.
In addition to their prison terms, both defendants will serve five years of supervised release upon completion of their sentences. The court similarly ordered the forfeiture of $225,000 in drug proceeds and three vehicles purchased with illegal funds.
U.S. Attorney Sandra Wilson praised the collaboration between local and federal agencies that led to these convictions. “This case demonstrates our ongoing commitment to dismantling drug trafficking organizations that threaten our communities,” she stated. “We’ll continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and prosecute those who profit from the distribution of illegal drugs.”
