Little Rock, Arkansas – A Blytheville man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on Thursday after pleading guilty to federal drug and firearms charges, officials announced. Lyonel Smith, 38, faced serious federal offenses related to methamphetamine distribution and possession of unregistered firearms. In addition to the prison sentence, Smith received five years of probation, with all sentences to be served concurrently.
Smith was initially indicted by a grand jury on August 8, 2024, on a four-count indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, possession of an unregistered firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. Authorities said the indictment followed a search of Smith’s residence in Blytheville conducted under a federal search warrant on September 27, 2023.
During the search of Smith’s home, officers reportedly discovered multiple firearms, drugs, and drug paraphernalia. In Smith’s bedroom, authorities found an FN Model 509 9mm semi-automatic pistol loaded with 24 rounds of ammunition, along with an FN Model Five-Seven, 5.7×28 caliber semi-automatic firearm. The search also uncovered six ounces of marijuana, more than seven grams of cocaine, digital scales, and other drug-related items.
The investigation extended to Smith’s garage, where authorities located 263 grams of methamphetamine. Several additional firearms were discovered in the garage, including an American Tactical Omni-Hybrid 300 Blackout rifle loaded with 20 rounds of ammunition, an American Tactical AR-15 .223 caliber rifle loaded with 14 rounds, and a 5.56 caliber AR-style semi-automatic rifle with a barrel shorter than 16 inches that was unregistered and lacked a serial number. Officials said the unregistered 5.56 caliber rifle led to a separate firearm charge.
Smith pleaded guilty on June 2, 2025, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of an unregistered firearm. “The federal system has no parole,” officials noted, emphasizing that Smith will serve the full term of his sentence as mandated. In addition to the 10-year sentence for methamphetamine distribution, he received five years in federal prison for the unregistered firearm charge, which will be served concurrently, along with five years of probation after release.
The investigation was led by the Blytheville Police Department with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Bart Dickinson, who emphasized the severity of the offenses and the risks posed by Smith’s actions to the community.
Authorities said the case highlights the ongoing efforts of federal and local law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession in the region. By removing both dangerous narcotics and unregistered weapons from circulation, officials hope to reduce the threat posed to public safety and prevent further criminal activity.
The sentence reflects the federal government’s strict stance on drug distribution and firearms violations. Smith’s case serves as a reminder that individuals involved in the possession and distribution of controlled substances or unregistered firearms face significant legal consequences.
Officials encouraged community members to report suspicious activity to local authorities and continue working alongside law enforcement to maintain safety. “This case demonstrates the collaboration between local and federal agencies in holding offenders accountable and protecting the citizens of Blytheville,” officials said.
With the 10-year federal sentence, Smith’s time in prison will ensure that he is removed from the community for a substantial period. Authorities expressed hope that such enforcement actions will deter others from engaging in similar illegal activity and reinforce the message that law enforcement remains committed to tackling the threats posed by drugs and unregistered firearms.
The Blytheville community and law enforcement agencies continue to work together to address crime and maintain safety, with federal prosecutions like Smith’s serving as an example of coordinated efforts to combat serious criminal behavior.
