TYLER, TX – James Kiser, 40, of Athens, Texas, was sentenced to 70 months (nearly six years) in federal prison on July 10, 2025, for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas. Kiser pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.
U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker handed down the sentence. According to information presented in court, Kiser was arrested on October 19, 2023, after selling approximately 34 grams of methamphetamine for $500 cash.
Further investigation revealed Kiser has an extensive criminal history, including 27 prior convictions for various offenses in Henderson and Smith counties.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.
