In Columbus, OH, a significant drug trafficking figure was sentenced to a term of 11 to 16.5 years in prison for his role in an expansive narcotics operation. Michael Crawford, identified as the leader of this operation, faced a judge following his May 21, conviction on charges related to cocaine trafficking and possession.
An intensive investigation by the DEA Columbus District Office Task Force into the Michael Crawford drug trafficking organization (DTO), beginning in May of 2022, led to Crawford’s apprehension. According to Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office, three operations ensnared a criminal associate from Crawford’s group, netting over half a million dollars believed to be drug proceeds. Surveillance efforts in April 2023 pinned down a large shipment of cocaine to an associated stash house, where authorities discovered roughly 13 kilograms of the drug.
Alongside Crawford’s arrest, Tegan Hearn, Angele Berry, and Keith Bailey were detained on multiple felony charges, though their legal journeys would diverge. Hearn’s plea deal resulted in a six-month prison sentence and, thereafter, community control. Bailey received a sentence approaching four years after also pleading guilty. Berry remains at large with a warrant for her arrest still active following her July 2023 indictment…