On Monday morning, December 9, 2024, William Avery Griffin, a 68-year-old man from Gilmer, Texas, pled guilty to possessing over 20 grams of Black Tar Heroin with intent to sell, prior to a jury being seated. As a result, Griffin was sentenced to 50 years in prison.
Griffin, whose criminal history spans multiple decades, was arrested following a March 29, 2024, search warrant executed by the Gilmer Police Department at his home on 813 Frazier Street. Police discovered a range of illegal items, including cocaine, marijuana, pills, digital scales, bags for packaging drugs, a loaded 9 mm handgun, and a substantial amount of cash. Further investigation revealed that Griffin had buried Black Tar Heroin in a tin can in his backyard.
This case stemmed from an undercover investigation in which an informant purchased heroin from Griffin on at least two occasions. After his arrest, Griffin admitted to selling drugs over an extended period of time.
Griffin's criminal record includes three prior felony convictions: a 10-year sentence for felony theft in 1996, a 20-year sentence for possession of heroin with intent to deliver in 2000, and a 15-year sentence in 2008 for the same offense. Due to his lengthy criminal history, he was charged as a habitual offender. Griffin is also currently on federal probation, and upon serving his 50-year sentence, he will be transferred to federal custody to complete his remaining federal sentence.
The Gilmer Police Department led the investigation and contributed to securing the conviction.
