Selma Man Headed To Federal Prison For More Than 15 Years

RALEIGH, N.C. – A federal judge this week sentenced Otha Gatlin, 48, of Selma, to over 15 years in federal prison for selling crack cocaine, possession with intent to sell cocaine, and possession of ammunition by a felon.  On February 9, 2026, Gatlin pleaded guilty to the charges without a plea agreement.

Twice in August 2024, the Selma Police Department joined with the ATF, used a confidential informant, and purchased crack cocaine from Gatlin. On October 29, 2024, officers arrested Gatlin in his hotel room. When officers searched the room, they located a digital scale, drug paraphernalia, more crack cocaine, methamphetamines, and an extended pistol magazine loaded with 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition. Gatlin already qualified as a career criminal based on his criminal history that included numerous felony drug and assault convictions.

“This case means a lot to me personally because I was directly involved in this investigation and operation here in Selma,” said Selma Police Chief Justin Vause. “I’ve seen firsthand the damage that drug activity and repeat violent offenders can do to families, neighborhoods, and the overall sense of safety in a small community like ours.”

“The sentencing of this individual is the result of a tremendous amount of hard work, persistence, and teamwork. I want to personally thank the investigators and agents from the Selma Police Department, the ATF, the NCSBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their dedication and commitment throughout this case. Cases like this do not happen overnight. They take long hours, strong partnerships, and people who are fully committed to protecting their communities.”

“As someone who cares deeply about this community, I believe our citizens deserve to feel safe in their homes, businesses, and neighborhoods. We will continue to aggressively target those involved in narcotics trafficking and violent criminal activity while continuing to build strong partnerships that help keep Selma moving in the right direction,” Chief Vause said.

W. Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Selma Police Department, the ATF, and the NCSBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Hinderliter prosecuted the case.