(WNY News Now) – BUFFALO, N.Y. — Two Jamestown men have been charged in a federal superseding indictment alleging narcotics trafficking, kidnapping, and armed robbery tied to a multi-year drug conspiracy involving fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine.
A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment charging Blake D. Smith, also known as “Sweets,” and Willie Graham, also known as “Wu,” both of Jamestown, New York, with multiple federal offenses including narcotics conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, kidnapping, use of a firearm during crimes of violence, and firearm-related drug trafficking offenses.
According to the indictment, the case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, with allegations covering conduct between February 2017 and January 2024. Prosecutors allege that Smith and Graham conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine in the Jamestown area.
Federal authorities further allege that during the course of the conspiracy, Smith possessed firearms in connection with drug trafficking activity.
Allegations of Fentanyl Distribution Causing Serious Injury
The superseding indictment states that between May 9 and May 11, 2023, Smith distributed fentanyl that allegedly resulted in serious bodily injury to two individuals identified in court records as R.P. and D.C.
Authorities emphasize that fentanyl-related overdoses and injuries have been a major focus of federal enforcement efforts in Western New York due to the drug’s potency and widespread impact.
Kidnapping and Armed Robbery Allegations
Separately, federal prosecutors allege that on March 8 and March 9, 2023, Smith and Graham kidnapped an individual identified as D.D. and stole a $25,000 check during the incident.
Court documents further allege that a firearm was brandished during the robbery, which is a key element of the Hobbs Act robbery charge and related firearm offenses included in the indictment.
Federal Charges and Potential Penalties
Smith and Graham are each charged with narcotics conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, kidnapping, and firearm offenses connected to both violent crime and drug trafficking activity. Smith also faces additional charges for possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking and distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury.
If convicted on the federal charges, both defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Operation Take Back America
The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at combating drug trafficking organizations, violent crime, and transnational criminal activity. The initiative coordinates efforts through programs such as the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Investigation
The investigation was conducted by the Jamestown Police Department under the direction of Chief Scott Forster, in coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Farhana Islam of the New York Field Division.
As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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