KC Reporter

A Kansas City man has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for fentanyl trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. James Paden, aged 63, received the sentence from U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips on May 27. He was sentenced as a career offender due to his previous felony convictions.

Paden pleaded guilty on November 18, 2024, to charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The investigation began when Kansas City police executed a search warrant at Paden's residence following three separate purchases by a confidential informant of tablets labeled "M30," which contain fentanyl.

During the search conducted on February 22, 2024, investigators discovered over 60 grams of fentanyl, along with quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine. They also found multiple firearms including a Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver, a Taurus G2 Millenium 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and a privately manufactured 9mm semi-automatic pistol without a serial number but featuring a Louis Vuitton design. Additionally, $1,000 in cash was seized.

The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings and investigated by the Kansas City Police Department alongside the FBI.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. The program emphasizes fostering trust within communities, supporting organizations that prevent violence before it occurs, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes effectively.