Man sentenced to prison for drug distribution

CHILHOWIE, Va. (WDBJ) – Jeffrey Michael Charles, 57, of Chilhowie, was sentenced to 40 years in prison following his conviction for distributing methamphetamine.

The sentence requires Charles to serve 10 years in prison, with the remaining 30 years suspended under strict conditions of supervised probation.

The conviction and sentencing of Jeffrey Charles is the result of an investigation led by the Smyth County Sheriff's Office.

“Today’s sentencing sends a clear signal that drug distribution will not be tolerated in our community, particularly by repeat offenders. Drug dealers are not welcome in Smyth County. We advocate for justice and hold accountable those who endanger others,” said Commonwealth’s Attorney Phillip Blevins.

Charles was previously convicted of two counts of distribution of controlled substances in 2018. His sentencing guidelines called for a prison sentence of three to five years. However, since this was his third conviction, the court applied a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years.

The Commonwealth Attorney's Office urges all community members to report suspected drug distribution to the Smyth County Sheriff's Office.

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