An eastern Kentucky couple, who a federal judge said played significant roles in getting several others hooked on methamphetamine, received lengthy sentences for drug conspiracy on Thursday.
Prosecutors said Roscoe Dean Smith, 44, of London and his wife, Darlene Smith, 44, of Corbin, were sentenced to 222-and-188 months respectively for conspiracy to manufacture 500-grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture.
Under federal law, the offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10-years.
The couple was also sentenced for possessing equipment used to manufacture methamphetamine.
The judge enhanced each defendant's sentences because authorities found a loaded shotgun in the room that was used to make the meth.
Prosecutors said from 2008 through 2011, Roscoe Smith manufactured meth in Knox and Laurel Counties. He exchanged it with other people who provided him pseudoephedrine he used to cook the meth.
Prosecutors said Darlene Smith coordinated and assisted others in obtaining pseudoephedrine.
Also, according to testimony at trial, Roscoe Smith traded meth for sex with a female.
Under federal law, the couple must serve 85 percent of their prison sentences, and, upon release, will be under the supervision of the United States Probation Office for at least five years.
