Benjamin Johnathan Newman, a 38-year-old inmate in South Carolina, has been sentenced to over 26 years in federal prison for running a large-scale drug distribution operation from behind bars.
Despite serving a 25-year sentence for drug trafficking since 2012, Newman used contraband cellphones to orchestrate the importation and distribution of significant amounts of methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana.
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Evidence revealed that Newman utilized 16 illegal cellphones to communicate with suppliers in Mexico and coordinate drug deliveries to South Carolina stash houses. The operation also employed threats of violence to protect its activities.
Newman’s conspiracy resulted in the distribution of over 350 kilograms of methamphetamine, four kilograms of heroin, and other drugs in South Carolina.
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All eight members of the conspiracy, including Newman, have been convicted. Four have already received their sentences, ranging from 63 months to 320 months in federal prison.
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