South Raleigh News

Joseph Lee, a 28-year-old resident of Wilmington, has been sentenced to over eight years in prison for drug-related offenses. He will also face four years of supervised release following his prison term. The charges against Lee include conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, as well as possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On August 13, 2024, Lee entered a guilty plea.

Court documents reveal that on June 29, 2023, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase using a confidential informant. Approximately an ounce of methamphetamine was bought from Lee near the Market North Apartment in Wilmington while he was armed with a handgun. Additional purchases totaling 40 grams were made between June 29 and August 3. Authorities have identified Lee as a validated member of the Folk Nation gang.

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation aimed at tackling high-level drug traffickers and criminal organizations threatening the United States. The task force employs a multi-agency approach led by prosecutors and driven by intelligence.

Michael F. Easley Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, announced the sentencing following proceedings by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The investigation was carried out by the ATF and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Severo handling prosecution duties.

Further details on related court documents can be accessed via the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or through PACER under Case No. 7:23-CR-00121-FL.