Jamestown, New York Man Pleads Guilty To Role In Drug Conspiracy

Sunday, September 29, 2024, 8:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BUFFALO, NY.- On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Charles Lawson, also known as “Charley Marley,” 34, of Jamestown, New York, appeared in U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. Roemer to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Heroin, Methamphetamine, and Fentanyl.

     During Wednesday’s hearing, Judge Roemer accepted Lawson’s guilty plea and scheduled sentencing for a date to be determined by the court. When sentenced, Lawson faces a maximum of up to 20 years in federal prison and a $1 million fine.

According To Documents Filed With The Court

     According to documents filed with the court, between January 2020 and March 2020, Lawson conspired with others to sell and distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl throughout Jamestown, New York, and surrounding areas. Lawson was a close associate of Rocco Beardsley and actively assisted Beardsley and his drug trafficking operation.

     During that time, Lawson used Facebook to advertise and sell Beardsley’s Heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. In return, Lawson received illicit narcotics for his own personal use as compensation for his services. 

     On January 23, 2020, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of fentanyl from Beardsley, and Lawson participated in the transaction. Beardsley was previously convicted on charges and is currently awaiting sentencing.

     According to U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross, the case was investigated as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, which identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal drug organizations.