United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced the sentencing of the last of four co-defendants involved in a large-scale marijuana distribution conspiracy in Tallahassee, Florida. Tyquan Watson and his half-brother Cleveland Blackshear, both residents of Tallahassee, were each sentenced to 10 years in prison. Dezaneil Cosby received a five-year sentence, while Shambresha Turner was given time-served with supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Heekin stated: “I applaud the substantial efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate, arrest, and help bring these drug traffickers to justice.” He emphasized that drug offenses impact communities by contributing to addiction and violence.
Trial evidence showed Watson purchased large quantities of marijuana weekly from California for resale in Tallahassee. From September 2023 to January 2024, he bought over 3,169 pounds of marijuana with proceeds exceeding $2.4 million.
Deanne L. Reuter from the DEA’s Miami Field Division highlighted concerns about marijuana’s potency and health risks: “With dispensaries and smoke shops becoming more commonplace… it’s stronger than ever and can pose a serious health risk.”
The investigation by the DEA and FDLE included several operations leading up to arrests on March 11, 2024. On August 16, 2022, Turner was caught at Panama City airport with marijuana-filled suitcases. Further controlled purchases led to discoveries involving Blackshear and Cosby.
Keith Wilmer from FDLE remarked: “This investigation sends a clear message: if you bring drug trafficking and violence into our communities, we’re coming for you.” The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys James A. McCain and Harley Ferguson.
The sentences resulted from collaborative efforts among various agencies as part of Operation Take Back America aimed at tackling illegal activities impacting communities nationwide.
For further details or public court documents related to this case, visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website or learn more about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida online.
