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Jamestown man facing lengthy prison sentence after pleading in meth case

Richard E. Kinsey

A Jamestown man is facing a lengthy prison sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

Richard E. Kinsey Jr., 36, entered the plea before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, between September 2019 and February 20, 2020, Kinsey allegedly conspired with Brandi Whitford to sell methamphetamine. On Sept. 6, 2019, investigators executed a search warrant at the residence Kinsey shared with Whitford on Newland Avenue in Jamestown.

During the search, three firearms were recovered. A fourth firearm was thrown from the residence during the search. In addition, investigators recovered approximately 159 grams of methamphetamine, about $12,045, assorted ammunition and drug paraphernalia.

On Oct. 23, 2019, investigators executed another search warrant at the residence and recovered an additional 53 grams of methamphetamine.

On Feb. 20, 2020, investigators assisted the U.S. Marshal’s Service with locating Kinsey, who was wanted on a federal arrest warrant. After learning the city man might be at a residence on Hedges Avenue in Jamestown, law enforcement made an attempt to contact Kinsey who attempted to flee before being taken into custody. Investigators recovered methamphetamine, a digital scale, drug paraphernalia, brass knuckles, and a loaded handgun from the Hedges Avenue residence.

Terrance McRae was previously convicted and sentenced to serve 36 months in prison. Brandy Whitford was also previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.

Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 8, before Judge Vilardo. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.

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