Lasherica Thornton, Jackson Sun Published 6:55 a.m. CT July 17, 2020 | Updated 5:26 a.m. CT July 19, 2020

File photo.(Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A WeakleyCo. man was sentenced to more than 20 years for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine following a 2018 investigation, according to a Thursday press release.

Keith Norris, 32 of Dresden, Tennessee, will spend 23 years in a federal prison for the charge, followed by five years of supervised release for the distribution of more than 296 oz. or 4.5 kilograms of meth.

Its the second sentencing in a case of conspiracy to distribute meth. The defendants Norris, Robert Thomas, Charles Settles, Justin Tyler Bynum and Solomon Clay face charges; Thomas was sentenced to nine years in federal prison, followed by five years supervised release for his role in the conspiracy.

"Drug distribution conspiracies are not victimless crimes, U.S. Attorney Michael Dunavant said. Methamphetamine causes significant human pain, loss, and destruction in countless ways, including addiction, injuries, and deaths.

Individuals who distribute harmful drugs into our rural communities can no longer hide, and those who choose to engage in such lawlessness will pay the price with a long prison sentence.

The Weakley County Sheriffs Department started an investigation into Norris for allegedly leading a drug trafficking organization. The investigation included search warrants, traffic stops, phone records and statements from people cooperating.

Norris was allegedly distributing meth to the five co-defendants. Investigators executed two searches at Norris house.

An April 2018 search recovered meth and more than $1,300. At a June 2018 search, investigators found Norris trying to destroy drug evidence. Police still recovered 4.5 ounces of meth, the release said.

When arrested, Norris claimed ownership of the drugs and let agents search his cell phone.

Based on his statement, Norris was held accountable for distributing 296 ounces of actual methamphetamine, which equates to over 4.5 kilograms of actual methamphetamine, the release said.

Lasherica Thornton is The Jackson Sun's education reporter. Reach her at 731-343-9133or by email at lthornton@jacksonsun.com. Follow her on Twitter: @LashericaT

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Weakley Co. man sentenced to 23 years in federal prison for distributing meth - The Jackson Sun