PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — A trial date has been set for a Magoffin County man indicted on federal drug and firearm charges.
Matthew R. Owens, 51, is accused of possessing large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute, along with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court records, Owens was arrested in March after the Magoffin County Sheriff’s Office received a tip that he was traveling to sell meth. Deputies located Owens at a gas station, where they noticed a square-shaped bulge in his pants. Investigators say Owens denied having anything concealed.
Owens was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant from Ohio. During a search, deputies say they found a nylon case hidden in his underwear containing more than 100 grams of methamphetamine, nearly two grams of fentanyl, and a small bag of pills.
A federal grand jury later indicted Owens on charges of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and fentanyl, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Owens appeared in federal court Monday, where he pleaded not guilty. A judge scheduled the case for trial on Feb. 9. If convicted, Owens faces up to 30 years in prison on the drug charge and up to 15 years on the firearm charge. He's currently lodged in the Pike County Detention Center.
