Wilmington gang member sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for fentanyl distribution
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington man identified by federal authorities as a member of the United Blood Nation street gang has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for distributing fentanyl, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
Maurice McKeithan, 25, known by the street name “Puff,” was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. McKeithan pleaded guilty in December 2025, to two counts of fentanyl distribution.
Federal prosecutors said the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted several controlled purchases of fentanyl and carfentanyl from McKeithan at locations throughout Wilmington. During one of the controlled purchases, investigators captured video showing McKeithan carrying a firearm in his pocket.
Authorities said McKeithan has an extensive criminal history, including prior convictions for selling heroin in 2012, conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon in 2015, and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill as a habitual felon in 2019. Prosecutors said he was on probation for felony fleeing to elude law enforcement when he committed the federal drug offenses.
U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle said the sentence demonstrates the government’s commitment to targeting drug traffickers and violent offenders.
“Let this prosecution serve as a clear warning: if you choose to traffic drugs, fuel violence, or profit from poisoning our communities, law enforcement and prosecutors will pursue you relentlessly,” Boyle said in a statement.
Special Agent in Charge Alicia Jones credited cooperation among federal and local law enforcement agencies for the outcome of the case, while Wilmington Police Chief Ryan Zuidema said the sentence removes a dangerous offender from the community.
The case was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and ATF and prosecuted as part of Operation Counterpunch, an initiative under the Homeland Security Task Force aimed at disrupting criminal organizations, gangs, and drug trafficking networks.
McKeithan will serve 15 years in federal prison following his sentencing in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
