Harrison County methamphetamine dealer sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violation (DOJ)

MARSHALL, Texas - A Marshall man has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for a drug trafficking violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

Avis Delynn Jones, 41, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap on May 1, 2026April 15, 2026.

According to information presented in court, on March 17, 2023, a search warrant was executed at Jones' University Avenue residence in Marshall resulting in the discovery of 440.7 grams of methamphetamine concealed in children's backpacks found in the kitchen. In addition, investigators found cocaine, marijuana, a stolen firearm, U.S. currency, and distribution paraphernalia such as digital scales and plastic bags.

Jones also has prior Texas felony convictions for injury to a child, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance, out of both Harrison and Gregg counties.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

The case was investigated by the FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Marshall Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.

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