BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

PIKEVILLE — It started with a routine traffic stop and ended with a prison sentence for a Magoffin County man. Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves sentenced 57-year-old Daniel Jackson of Salyersville on Thursday to 97 months in prison.

The sentencing followed Jackson’s conviction for possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and a side order of fentanyl possession with intent to distribute.

According to court records the unraveling began Feb. 7, 2024, when law enforcement pulled Jackson over. A search of his vehicle turned up more than 70 grams of meth. After his arrest, Jackson tried to offload a bag of fentanyl inside the police car.

Federal sentencing guidelines guarantee he will serve at least 85% of his term. Afterward, Jackson will remain under the watchful eye of the U.S. Probation Office for five more years.

U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier IV, DEA Louisville’s Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, and Magoffin County Sheriff William “Bill” Meade jointly announced the sentence. The DEA, the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office, and Operation UNITE investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew Trimble steered the prosecution.