A Lowndes County man was sentenced on Apr. 6 to thirteen years in prison for trafficking more than fifty grams of methamphetamine, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
The sentencing highlights ongoing efforts by federal and local authorities to combat drug-related crime in Mississippi communities. The case is part of broader initiatives aimed at reducing violence and dismantling criminal organizations involved in illegal drug trade.
Calvin Baskin, 55, of Columbus, Mississippi, pled guilty in U.S. District Court stemming from his arrest on August 8, 2024. Judge Glen H. Davidson handed down a sentence of 157 months in prison followed by five years supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary said, “Mississippians are historically hard workers, not perfect by any means, but dedicated hard workers. Together we have progressed, creating a State that is a wonderful place to live and raise a family. However, some communities here face daily violence driven by the illegal drug trade. To help these communities requires hard work, dangerous work, tirelessly pursued by our state and federal officers. On one level this case may seem mundane, but it is not. This investigation and prosecution reflect the daily vigilance exhibited by state and federal law enforcement. Working together, day by day, we can help our communities be places of safety where hard work and devotion pay off. A special thanks to Sheriff Eddie Hawkins and his Lowndes County office and the DEA for making this a reality.”
Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw said: “Methamphetamine trafficking brings nothing but misery and crime to our doorsteps… The DEA and our partners will never waver in our efforts to identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who prioritize profit over the safety and well-being of our community.”
Sheriff Eddie Hawkins also commented: “We are grateful for the strong partnership between the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office… This sentencing sends a clear message that those who traffic illegal drugs and endanger our communities will be held accountable.”
The investigation involved several agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics (MBN), U.S Marshal’s Service with prosecution led by Assistant U.S Attorney Clyde McGee.
This case falls under both Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established through Executive Order 14159 as well as Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). Both programs focus on interagency cooperation targeting violent crime reduction through strategic enforcement priorities.
