Bradenton Man Sentenced to 19 Years for Drug Trafficking and Gun Charges
A Bradenton man has been sentenced to nearly two decades in federal prison after being convicted on multiple drug and firearm charges. Andre Adams Jr., 43, received a 19-year sentence for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.
The case began when the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office received a tip that fentanyl was being sold through the mobile payment platform Cash App. After an investigation, authorities identified Adams as the individual behind the transactions. Detectives conducted surveillance and observed a pattern of brief visits to Adams’ home, consistent with suspected drug deals.
Records revealed that Adams had received tens of thousands of dollars via Cash App over a short period. Investigators noted that many transactions were linked to individuals with known drug addiction issues, often using coded language to describe narcotics.
A search of Adams’ home in August 2022 uncovered a loaded firearm, $22,000 in cash, 400 grams of cocaine, 55 grams of methamphetamine, 80 grams of fentanyl, and equipment associated with drug distribution. Further investigation of his storage unit revealed additional contraband, including three firearms—one of which was an AK-47 rifle—several dozen rounds of ammunition, two kilograms of cocaine, 350 grams of methamphetamine, and more tools used for drug processing.
Adams, who had previously served 15 years in prison for cocaine trafficking, was barred by federal law from owning firearms due to his felony record. Despite this prohibition, authorities found him in possession of multiple weapons, further compounding his charges.
U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington handed down the sentence in Tampa after Adams’ conviction in July. His case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the distribution of fentanyl and other illicit drugs in the region.