NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A 39-year-old Newport News man with an extensive criminal record was sentenced Friday to 17 years and six months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Jermaine Damon Outlaw was apprehended on Aug. 29, 2019, at a Best Western hotel in Newport News, where law enforcement detained him on multiple outstanding felony warrants. Officers discovered 1.36 grams of cocaine, $855 in cash, a loaded illegal handgun, and a cellphone. Investigators reviewed text messages on Outlaw’s phone, which they said confirmed his regular distribution of cocaine and other illegal drugs.
Court documents revealed that Outlaw is a career offender, having been convicted at least 20 times for crimes including assault and battery, unlawful wounding, possession of a firearm on school property, carrying a concealed weapon, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and malicious wounding. His lengthy criminal history contributed to the significant sentence handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge Rebecca Beach Smith.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement in bringing Outlaw to justice. The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Newport News Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter G. Osyf prosecuted the case.