Coeburn Man Sentenced to 20 Years For Possessing Firearms, Silencers

Press Release

Rodney Pickett Conspired to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possessed Firearms and Silencers

ABINGDON, Va. - A Coeburn, Virginia man, who a jury convicted of conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in addition to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison.

Earlier this year, a jury convicted Rodney Allen Pickett, 51, of one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, three counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a felony, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of possession of firearm silencers.

At trial, witnesses testified that Pickett bought multiple pounds of methamphetamine weekly, which he then sold to others for thousands of dollars. During a search of Pickett's home, law enforcement officers found multiple firearms, silencers, magazines, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, along with over 500 grams of methamphetamine. Additionally, a drill press witnesses testified was used for making and altering firearms was found in Pickett's kitchen area.

United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia and Special Agent in Charge Craig B. Kailimai of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement.

The Southwest Virginia Drug Task Force, the Coeburn Police Department, the Wise County Sheriff's Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle Stone and Lena Busscher are prosecuting the case.

Updated August 5, 2024