Kalamazoo Man Gets 27 Years for Drug Trafficking

Michael Warren Smith Jr., a 38-year-old man from Kalamazoo, has been sentenced to 327 months, or over 27 years, in federal prison for drug trafficking. Smith pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. During an October 2023 search of his residence and apartment, authorities discovered large amounts of these drugs, including over five pounds of methamphetamine and more than 500 grams of fentanyl, along with five loaded firearms. Smith admitted the drugs were his and intended for sale. His attorney highlighted Smith's troubled past, including time in foster care and substance abuse issues, while Smith expressed commitment to changing his behavior. Law enforcement officials hailed the sentence as a necessary measure to prevent these drugs and firearms from reaching the streets of Kalamazoo.