A Tennessee man has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the distribution of fentanyl in Southwest Virginia. Jermaine Crayton Jr., 20, admitted to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, as well as one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to information presented in court, law enforcement agencies began investigating Crayton following a coordinated operation in August 2025. The investigation involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Smyth County Sheriff’s Office, City of Bristol Virginia Police Department, Washington County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Authorities gathered intelligence indicating that Crayton was transporting large amounts of fentanyl-laced pills and powder into Smyth County for distribution.
In August 2025, officers arranged a controlled purchase from Crayton at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Bristol, Virginia. The transaction involved 1,000 fentanyl pills and two ounces of fentanyl powder. After identifying Crayton at the scene, law enforcement attempted to apprehend him. Crayton fled on foot and dropped several items during his escape attempt, including baggies containing pressed fentanyl pills and powder.
Upon arresting Crayton, authorities found he was carrying a total of 2,372 fentanyl pills and 58.72 grams of fentanyl powder. The pills were identified as “pressed” or “M30” pills—counterfeit tablets designed to look like oxycodone but often containing inconsistent doses of fentanyl. Such pills have become more common and pose significant risks due to their potential for overdose.
Robert N. Tracci, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, and Ian Kaufmann, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, announced the plea.
The case continues to be investigated by multiple law enforcement agencies mentioned above. Assistant United States Attorney Whit Pierce is handling prosecution.
