Federal indictment unsealed: Scott Co. bust leads to drug trafficking charges, $67,315 cash seized

Lexington, KY — A federal indictment against Jamele Wydale Mundy was unsealed Tuesday, revealing charges of possession with intent to distribute large quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. The federal Grand Jury returned the indictment September 21 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

Charges and Seized Assets

Mundy is charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. The first count alleges that on May 16, 2023, in Scott County, Mundy "did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance." The second count alleges a similar offense involving "28 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, a Schedule II controlled substance."

Significantly, the indictment also notes the forfeiture of assets, including "$67,315.00 in United States currency."

Legal Proceedings

The case is assigned to Judge Karen K. Caldwell and referred to Magistrate Judge Edward B. Atkins. The indictment was returned in open court on September 21, the same day an arrest warrant was issued for Mundy. The case was sealed until Tuesday, following a motion to unseal filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Potential Penalties

If convicted, Mundy faces severe penalties. For the first count involving fentanyl, the indictment outlines a potential sentence of "not less than 10 years nor more than Life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, and not less than 5 years supervised release." The second count involving cocaine carries a potential sentence of "not less than 5 years nor more than 40 years, a fine of not more than $4,000,000, and not less than 4 years supervised release." Mundy previously pleaded guilty to a federal Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge in 2014.

Implications

The unsealing of this indictment brings to light a significant drug trafficking case involving large amounts of fentanyl and cocaine. The substantial amount of cash seized—$67,315—adds another layer of gravity to the charges. As the case moves forward, it will be closely watched for its potential impact on drug trafficking and law enforcement efforts in the region.

Photo byAdobe Stock