RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge this week sentenced Otha Gatlin, 48, of Selma, to over 15 years in federal prison for selling crack cocaine, possession with intent to sell cocaine, and possession of ammunition by a felon. On February 9, 2026, Gatlin pleaded guilty to the charges without a plea agreement.
Twice in August 2024, the Selma Police Department joined with the ATF, used a confidential informant, and purchased crack cocaine from Gatlin. On October 29, 2024, officers arrested Gatlin in his hotel room. When officers searched the room, they located a digital scale, drug paraphernalia, more crack cocaine, methamphetamines, and an extended pistol magazine loaded with 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Gatlin already qualified as a career criminal based on his criminal history that included numerous felony drug and assault convictions.
“This case means a lot to me personally because I was directly involved in this investigation and operation here in Selma,” said Selma Police Chief Justin Vause. “I’ve seen firsthand the damage that drug activity and repeat violent offenders can do to families, neighborhoods, and the overall sense of safety in a small community like ours.”…