Evergreen Reporter

A King County man, Braiden F. Wilson, 29, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for multiple charges, including possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and unlawful possession of a machinegun and destructive devices. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller.

Wilson and his partner, Chandler B. Bennett, were apprehended following a shooting incident on May 12, 2024, in rural King County. During the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Lauren King remarked on the severity of the crimes: "The crimes were egregious… You distributed a large amount of drugs that cause a danger to our community."

According to Acting U.S. Attorney Miller, Wilson used the dark web to sell fentanyl pills nationwide and endangered the community by storing weapons and explosives near a state park.

Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) began investigating Wilson for dealing drugs online when King County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an RV near Olallie State Park where Wilson had been shot. The RV was equipped with surveillance cameras; however, Bennett refused access to law enforcement until they obtained a warrant from a judge.

Upon entering the RV, authorities discovered firearms and materials linked to drug manufacturing. They seized over two kilograms of fentanyl-laced pills among other substances and equipment. Additionally, untraceable gun parts made from 3D printers were found along with explosive devices.

Further searches revealed more pill presses and controlled substances in storage units connected to Wilson. Investigations showed he conducted over 2,000 transactions using his dark web identity, earning more than $287,000 in cryptocurrency.

Prosecutors highlighted Wilson's extensive operation in their sentencing request: “Wilson engaged in a comprehensive enterprise to distribute fentanyl-laced pills throughout the country by offering his products for sale on dark web marketplaces… He maintained a veritable armory while engaged in his drug distribution business.”

King County Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall praised her deputies' efforts: “This is another example of great work by our patrol deputies... I am so proud of the work done by our Gun Violence Reduction Unit.”

The case involved collaboration between HSI, King County Sheriff's Office, ATF, USPIS, FBI, DEA, and Washington State Patrol. Assistant United States Attorneys Casey Conzatti and Brian Wynne are prosecuting the case.