FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                     CONTACT:  Donna Krise
THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2008                                     ACTING PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
www.usdoj.gov/usao/txe                                                                               PHONE: (936) 639-4003

SILSBEE, TEXAS MAN SENTENCED TO 120 MONTHS FOR FEDERAL DRUG VIOLATIONS

(Beaumont, TX)  United States Attorney Becky Gregory announced today that a 29 year old Silsbee, Texas man has been sentenced to 120 months for federal drug violations in the Eastern District of Texas.

 
            BRIAN ONEAL HOWARD was convicted of possession with the intent to distribute more than five grams, but less than 50 grams, of cocaine base, also known as "crack" cocaine following a two day trial late last year.  Howard was sentenced today during an appearance before the Honorable Judge Thad Heartfield.  Following his release from federal prison, Howard will be required to complete an eight year period of supervised release.  

  
            According to information presented in Court, Silsbee Police Officers on patrol observed a vehicle traveling slowly through Silsbee.  The vehicle made suspicious maneuvers and appeared to be attempting to avoid the police patrol vehicle.  Officers watched as the driver parked the car, exited the vehicle and began walking quickly towards a nearby residence.  The officers approached the individual, identified as Howard, and questioned him about the vehicle.  They then requested permission to search the car that they had observed Howard exit.  During the search of the vehicle, officers discovered a plastic bag in the rear seat floor board that contained 5.21 grams of cocaine base.

            This case was investigated by the Silsbee Police Department, the Beaumont Office of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randall Fluke.
####

back to top