Maurice A. Stewart, 31, of Akron, Ohio, has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine trafficking operation across Summit County and nearby areas. U.S. District Judge David A. Ruiz handed down the sentence after Stewart pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
Following his release from prison, Stewart will be subject to three years of supervised release.
The investigation began in October 2022 when special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) started looking into suspected drug and firearms trafficking in Akron. Authorities discovered that Stewart and two others were working together to obtain large quantities of methamphetamine for sale throughout Northeast Ohio. During a search at Stewart’s home on West Long Street in Akron, agents seized over 379 grams of methamphetamine, nearly 88 grams of fentanyl, four cellphones, and a Glock semiautomatic pistol. Additional searches at properties linked to Stewart’s co-conspirators led to more seizures including drugs, a firearm, scales and paraphernalia.
Two other individuals involved in the case have also received federal prison sentences after pleading guilty:
Kevin R. McQuain, 46, was sentenced to just over eight years (100 months) for conspiracy and distribution charges as well as possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Kenneth L. Pitman, 54, received a seven-and-a-half-year sentence (90 months) for similar charges along with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) worked on this case alongside the Portage County Sheriff’s Office Drug and Violent Crime Unit.
Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Dangelo prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.
