A Tennessee man, Zachary Rankin, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after being found guilty of serious drug and weapon charges.
The sentence was announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and marks the conclusion of a lengthy investigation into Rankin’s criminal activities, which included illegal drug distribution and possession of firearms as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, Rankin was involved in trafficking methamphetamine in the East Tennessee region.
Law enforcement authorities began their investigation in 2022 and discovered that Rankin had been supplying large quantities of the drug to buyers in the area.
Investigators used surveillance, confidential sources, and controlled drug purchases to gather evidence against him.
In addition to drug trafficking, Rankin was also found to have multiple firearms despite being legally prohibited from owning them due to previous felony convictions.
Prosecutors said that Rankin used weapons to protect his drug business and to intimidate others. During a search of his property, officers found methamphetamine, cash, and several guns, confirming his involvement in the illegal trade.
Federal authorities emphasized the seriousness of the case. They stated that Rankin’s actions contributed to the growing drug problem in the community, and his sentencing sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and local police departments, worked together on the investigation.
Officials said Rankin has a history of criminal behavior and that his latest offenses showed a continued disregard for the law. His 20-year sentence reflects the weight of the crimes and aims to protect the public from further harm.
The case is part of a broader effort by federal and local authorities to reduce violent crime and drug trafficking in Tennessee. Prosecutors hope that strong legal action like this will help deter others from similar crimes.