Kingsport resident handed life sentence over overdose fatality

Summary

A Kingsport man, Terrance Lamont Hines, Jr., has been sentenced to life imprisonment following a fentanyl overdose related death, according to an announcement made recently by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

The Ruling

Following proceedings in Greeneville courts on Monday, Hines, a 42-year-old Kingsport resident, was convicted in June 2023 for conspiring to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, resulting in a death, also of multiple counts of distributing fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, possession of a firearm to further drug trafficking and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.

Investigation and Evidence

The DOJ stated that Hines had supplied the lethal amounts of fentanyl that led to the untimely demise of a 52-year-old Kingsport woman in December 2020. Materials and statements demonstrate that there were three co-defendants who also partook in the chain of fentanyl distribution, each playing a significant role.

Hines reportedly sold the fentanyl to co-defendant Robin Hutchins, who then sold the drugs to Adam Presnell, who in turn sold them to Shaina Lanford. Lanford was the final link in the chain of distribution, providing the drugs directly to the victim.

On July 20, 2021, a warranted search by law enforcement at Hines’ apartment and at a Kingsport music studio, allegedly used as a hub for his drug operations, led to the discovery of two firearms and over 100 grams of fentanyl.

The Judge’s View

Subsequently, Judge Ronnie Greer presiding over the case determined that Hines met the qualification as an armed career criminal under the relevant federal statutory law and a career offender under the federal sentencing guidelines, the DOJ noted.

A Warning For The Community

This case serves as a severe warning to communities about the stark consequences of drug trafficking and the destructive nature of fentanyl. Drug abuse and trafficking have pervaded communities nationwide, and the punishment meted out to Hines may serve to deter potential drug offenders. The case reaffirms the commitment of law enforcement agencies and the justice system toward combatting drug-related crime, holding those involved fully accountable for the destruction and loss they cause.