NEW BERN, NC – A Harnett County man shot during his arrest two years ago in Benson was sentenced Monday to more than 16 years in federal prison.
Oshea Massey, 25, of Ammons Road, Dunn was sentenced to 199 months behind bars for trafficking heroin and fentanyl. Massey is a validated member of the United Blood Nation street gang.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Massey was a leader of a violent United Nation Blood street gang responsible for at least 10 shootings from 2019 to 2021. The shootings were typically related to territorial disputes, attempted armed robberies, or intimidation and retaliation.
Law enforcement made seven controlled purchases of heroin and fentanyl from Massey between January and March of 2021. These purchases were made after Massey was identified as having sold another defendant varying amounts of heroin over a two-year period. During the investigation, others also identified Massey as a heroin dealer. Much of the heroin that was distributed by Massey also tested positive for fentanyl.
On May 5, 2021, a Johnston County sheriff’s detective shot Massey while attempting to take him into custody while inside a vehicle in the 400 block of E. Branch Street in Benson. A multi-jurisdiction operation was being conducted that day to apprehend Massey who was wanted on outstanding warrants for drug trafficking offenses. He had prior felony convictions for possession of a firearm by a felon, second-degree burglary, and various drug offenses.
Massey was shot in the wrist by one of the officers, who feared the suspect was reaching for a gun. Later, a handgun was found in the car near Massey’s leg. A search of the vehicle also revealed marijuana, cash, and a receipt with an off-white powdery substance. A subsequent search of Massey’s residence found 3.1 grams of heroin. The Johnston County District Attorney’s office ruled the officer was justified in the use of force.
“It is through partnerships with surrounding local and federal agencies such as ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s Office that we can identify and convict violent, drug dealing gang leaders who are attempting to destroy our communities and youth,” said Harnett County Sheriff Wayne Coats. “Oshea Massey was a violent criminal in Harnett County who will now spend many years in prison.”
“This is another great example of ATF agents partnering with the Sheriff to ensure safer communities within Johnston County,” said Sheriff Steve Bizzell. “We value the working relationship we have with the ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s office and will continue to aggressively pursue and remove drug dealers and felons that are in possession of firearms from our neighborhoods.”
Massey pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and 40 grams or more of fentanyl and distribution of a quantity of fentanyl. Massey was previously convicted on felony burglary (2013) and felony larceny (2015) charges. In 2016, he was convicted of possession of firearm by a felon. Massey also faces state charges for drug trafficking for offenses that allegedly occurred in 2018 and 2019.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Dunn Police Department and the Johnston and Harnett County Sheriffs’ Offices investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Lemons prosecuted the case.
Known gang member. Dealt heroin and fentanyl, out in 17 years. There’s our Justice system.
The story says he’s facing State charges as well. Will probably plea and get a couple more tacked on. Actually I’m not sure how much. No experience with it. He will get something though.
“Massey was previously convicted on felony burglary (2013) and felony larceny (2015) charges.”
And he was on the streets WHY?!
Need new President and new Judges. Its going to take 30 years to repair what Biden did in 3 years.
Mr. Thomas Payne this young man is better known as a mostly peaceful-partly violent progressive protester, PLEASE!!! Vote blue until we are through!!
“Massey was previously convicted on felony burglary (2013) and felony larceny (2015) charges. In 2016, he was convicted of possession of firearm by a felon. Massey also faces state charges for drug trafficking for offenses that allegedly occurred in 2018 and 2019.”
So why no “Habitual Felon” charge against this pariah? Seems more than appropriate here!!