A Roanoke Rapids man was sentenced Tuesday to 100 months in federal prison for trafficking methamphetamine.

Taj’ma De’yong Ussery, also known as “Pop Off,” was convicted by a federal jury last October.

He escaped a federal conviction for distributing fentanyl due to a mistrial, previous court records show.

“Drug traffickers are pushing dangerous and illegal drugs in vulnerable communities, driving up rates of addiction and overdose,” said United States Attorney Michael Easley.  “We are partnering with law enforcement to stop this cycle by investigating and prosecuting those supplying the narcotics. This conviction is a result of our strong partnership with local law enforcement, who are working tirelessly to keep their communities safe.”

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ussery, 26, distributed 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance on December 21, 2022. 

The sale was a hand-to-hand transaction with a confidential informant. 

Ussery was identified as a regular dealer of fentanyl and methamphetamine in the community who worked within a network of others to distribute drugs throughout Halifax County. 

This indictment resulted as part of a larger effort to combat drug and gang-related violence in Halifax County and was the result of coordination between the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Attorney’s Office.

“I want to thank our dedicated drug agents along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their hard work on this case,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “A sentence like this sends a strong message to those in our community who would engage in dealing dangerous drugs. We will hold you accountable and seek justice.”