Columbia Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Marijuana and Gun Charges
In a recent ruling that has raised eyebrows in Columbia, a 30-year-old man has been handed down a 12-year prison sentence after being found guilty of serious drug and firearm charges. The case of Booker Henley has taken many twists and turns since it first came to light in March 2023 when local law enforcement tried to intervene in what turned out to be a chaotic situation.
From Social Media Sales to Federal Charges
All the trouble started when Richland County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to pull Henley over in northeast Columbia. Instead of complying, Henley made a run for it, leading to a dramatic car crash shortly thereafter. But the scene quickly turned more unsettling, as investigators discovered that his car smelled heavily of marijuana. What’s more, they found a loaded firearm with an extended magazine along with a substantial stash of 252 grams of marijuana concealed within the vehicle.
But that’s not all! Before the chaotic chase and crash, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives had already been monitoring Henley’s social media accounts. It appears he had been actively promoting his marijuana sales online, posting pictures and messages indicating that he was engaging in drug transactions. Talk about getting caught red-handed!
The Timeline of Events
Investigators revealed that just 45 minutes prior to the police chase, Henley had completed a drug sale in the Columbia area. Shockingly, even after the crash, his phone wouldn’t stop buzzing; he messaged someone mentioning the wrecking of his beloved “skat,” hinting at his Dodge Charger Skat Pack. It’s baffling how some individuals make such questionable choices, putting their freedoms and lives on the line.
A Strict Sentencing
On November 13, U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie sentenced Henley to a total of 144 months in federal prison. This sentence consists of concurrent terms of 84 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm, and 60 months for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Additionally, he was slapped with a 60-month sentence for possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense. That’s quite the lineup!
When Henley finally serves his time and steps outside the prison gates, he won’t be completely free. He will have a lengthy three years of court-ordered supervision hanging over his head. It seems the consequences of his actions will follow him long after leaving prison—certainly a reality check for anyone considering dabbling in illegal activities!
A Cautionary Tale
This entire saga serves as a strong reminder of the risks and legal repercussions associated with illegal drug distribution and firearm possession. The combination of social media and illegal activities has proven to be a dangerous mix that can lead to severe consequences. One can only hope that Henley’s story discourages others from following a similar path.
As the news spreads about Henley’s impressive collection of poor choices, residents of Columbia may be more aware of the implications of their actions, especially when social media is involved. Let this be a lesson to all: be cautious of the stories you share and the business you venture into, for they could land you in a world of trouble!
