United States Drug Enforcement Administration

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – A Hot Springs, Arkansas man was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in Federal Prison to be followed by five years of Supervised Release for Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Firearm in furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person - Felon.  The Honorable Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearings, which took place in the United States District Court in Hot Springs.

According to court records, in July of 2024 law enforcement agent conducted undercover controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Markevin Duwayne Taylor, age 33.  On August 5, 2024, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Taylor’s residence, during which they located a large quantity of methamphetamine and a handgun.  It was also determined that Taylor was a multiple time convicted felon.  

On June 26, 2025, Taylor pleaded guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Firearm in furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person - Felon.   During Taylor’s sentencing hearing on July 6, 2026, the Court determined that Taylor was an Armed Career Criminal based on the number and type of Taylor’s prior felony convictions.  

“Career criminals will not have safe harbor inside the Western District of Arkansas,” said United States Attorney Kevin R. Holmes.  “Our state, local and federal law enforcement partnership is strong, and we will work together to ensure that these dangerous offenders get the time in prison they deserve.” 

“This investigation highlights our unyielding resolve to target drug traffickers who bring weapons and dangerous narcotics into our neighborhoods. Through Operation Take Back America, we will continue to deploy the full force of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from violent crime,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott, New Orleans Field Division.

“We are thankful for our relationship with the US Attorney’s Office,” said Hot Springs Police Chief Chris Chapmond. “The aggressive prosecution of these types of offenders sends a clear message to those that want to commit offenses that endanger our citizens.”  

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan A. Achorn prosecuted the case for the United States. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Hot Springs Police Department investigated the case.  The 18th East Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office also assisted with the prosecution and investigation of this matter.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the U.S. Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov.