A Bristol, Virginia man was sentenced on Apr. 30 to ten years in federal prison after pleading guilty to drug and gun charges related to the distribution of fentanyl.
Briar Stephens, age 25, admitted to conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in western Virginia to address the dangers posed by illegal fentanyl distribution.
First Assistant United States Attorney Robert N. Tracci said, “This office will continue to partner with law enforcement to target anyone who illegally distributes fentanyl in the Western District of Virginia.” Christopher Goumenis, Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division Special Agent in Charge, added, “Keeping our communities safe is our top priority. We are committed to pursuing justice against drug traffickers who illegally distribute dangerous substances like fentanyl. Through collaboration and unwavering determination, we strive to uphold justice and protect the citizens we serve. The DEA Bristol Post of Duty will continue to partner with law enforcement to target anyone who illegally distribute fentanyl in Western Virginia.”
According to court documents, Stephens conspired between September and October 2024 with Bobby Arnett and others in distributing fentanyl pills throughout Washington County within the Western District of Virginia and other locations. On October 16, 2024, Stephens was found possessing approximately 600 fentanyl pills intended for further distribution as well as a loaded Glock .40 caliber pistol during this conspiracy.
The Elizabethton Tennessee Police Department, Washington County Virginia Sheriff’s Office, Holston River Drug Task Force, and the Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Stone is prosecuting it.
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia promotes public safety through crime prevention initiatives while partnering with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies according to its official website. The office handles federal prosecutions and civil litigation for the United States across several cities including Roanoke, Charlottesville, Abingdon, Lynchburg, Danville and Harrisonburg according to its official website. It covers western portions of Virginia as part of the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website.
