A Raleigh man has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for leading a cocaine trafficking operation. Wilbert Lee Howard, III, age 42, pleaded guilty on June 12, 2025, to charges related to drug distribution and firearms possession.
U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle commented on the sentencing: “This defendant had multiple prior state convictions for cocaine trafficking and possessing firearms, but he never learned his lesson. He continued to pump poison into our neighborhoods instead of being a contributing member of society,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Our neighborhoods, families, and communities are safer with this man behind bars. If you think you can make money and get away with selling drugs in Eastern North Carolina, you are wrong. Our federal and state law enforcement will find you, take your drugs, guns, cars, and money, and you will go to prison. Justice in this case is strong, it’s fair, and it sends a message loud and clear.”
Court documents show that from September 2023 to July 2024 Howard distributed about 14 kilograms of cocaine throughout Raleigh and nearby areas. The investigation found that Howard supplied other dealers with kilograms of cocaine for local distribution. Law enforcement stopped several individuals associated with Howard during traffic stops where they seized cocaine, marijuana, and cash.
On July 17, 2024 officers executed search warrants at locations used by Howard for his drug operations. They recovered additional quantities of cocaine along with cash and multiple firearms including a shotgun and a 9mm handgun.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle following sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives worked alongside the Raleigh Police Department in investigating the case; Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden prosecuted.
This prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America—a national effort by the Department of Justice focused on combating illegal immigration-related crime as well as dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations through coordinated efforts like OCDETFs (Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
