Columbia man sentenced to federal prison for smuggling cocaine, fentanyl

A Columbia man has been sentenced to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for his involvement in a drug smuggling conspiracy. Jocobia Dozier-Eaddy, 37, was found guilty of shipping and selling cocaine as well as counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. The sentencing underscores the serious legal repercussions tied to drug trafficking activities.

According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Dozier-Eaddy coordinated with a supplier in Arizona, wiring money to facilitate the shipment of drug packages to South Carolina via the mail. His operations came to the attention of investigators after he sold 200 counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl to an undercover agent, leading to his identification and subsequent arrest.

Further investigation revealed that Dozier-Eaddy had contacted the United States Postal Service after federal agents intercepted a package he was expecting. This package was found to contain 900 grams of cocaine and five grams of crack cocaine, further implicating him in the drug conspiracy.

Dozier-Eaddy's sentencing also included a two-year term of court-ordered supervision following his prison term. In a related context, the supplier based in Arizona faced arrest as part of a separate investigation conducted by Homeland Security.

These developments highlight ongoing efforts by federal agencies to combat drug trafficking and its associated dangers, particularly as counterfeit drugs containing fentanyl continue to pose significant public health risks.