Five Sentenced to Federal Prison Following Major Methamphetamine Trafficking Case in Middlesboro

From Appalachia Narcotics Investigations -

MIDDLESBORO, Ky. — Five individuals have been sentenced to federal prison following a lengthy drug trafficking investigation conducted by Appalachia Narcotics Investigations (ANI) targeting the distribution of methamphetamine in Bell and Harlan counties.

The investigation began in late 2023 and continued through late 2024, focusing on drug trafficking activity in the Middlesboro area of Bell County. As the investigation progressed, detectives identified a Drug Trafficking Organization that investigators determined was a primary supplier of methamphetamine to the City of Middlesboro, other areas of Bell County, eastern Tennessee, and portions of Harlan County.

During the course of the investigation, detectives seized more than twelve pounds of methamphetamine.

Between May and July 2026, the following individuals were sentenced in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Southern Division at London:

• David Mosely — 188 months in federal prison

• Josh Berry — 137 months in federal prison

• Charles H. Garren — 120 months in federal prison

• James Hamlin — 113 months in federal prison

• Jacqueline P. Hamlin — 40 months in federal prison

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Each was sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute 500 Grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Methamphetamine, a Schedule II Controlled Substance.

The investigation was conducted by Appalachia Narcotics Investigations with assistance from the Kentucky State Police Post 10, Drug Enforcement Administration - London Resident Office, Bell County Sheriff’s Office, Harlan County Sheriff’s Office, and Kentucky National Guard JSO Recon.

Appalachia Narcotics Investigations remains committed to identifying and dismantling drug trafficking organizations responsible for supplying dangerous controlled substances throughout southeastern Kentucky. This investigation demonstrates the importance of cooperation between local, state, federal, and military partners in disrupting drug trafficking networks and holding those responsible accountable.