Press Release
The Office of State Attorney Larry Basford announced that a Bay County Jury found Justin Michael Howard guilty as charged on November 30, 2021, for Trafficking in Methamphetamine 200 or more grams, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Carrying a Concealed Firearm. On August 15, 2020, the Defendant was the subject of a controlled buy operation conducted by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators through text message had the defendant agree to deliver over 200 grams of methamphetamine. The Defendant had believed he was dealing with another dealer he had dealt with. When the defendant arrived at the residence, investigators were present to greet him and take him into custody. The defendant was found to have a firearm concealed in his pocket and 240grams of Methamphetamine in a black plastic bag. The encounter was captured on BCSO’s body camera.
The defendant was immediately sentenced by Chief Judge Christopher Patterson to 30 years in prison with a $250,000.00 fine. The case was prosecuted by Assistant State Attorney Peter Overstreet.
For additional information, contact Public Information Officer Mike Cazalas.