Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
Three men from Orange County, Florida, have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Ronald E. Hubbard, Jr., Douglas E. Arnett, Jr., and Bradley D. Burch received sentences ranging from nine to 15 years, handed down by U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger after they pleaded guilty in May 2025.
Sentencing Details
Hubbard, 38, of Apopka, was sentenced to 13 years and four months in prison, while Arnett, 33, of Orlando, received a nine-year sentence. Burch, 35, also from Apopka, received the longest sentence of 15 years, which included an additional charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
The Drug Conspiracy
According to court documents and plea agreements, the conspiracy unfolded throughout 2023. Undercover agents conducted multiple controlled purchases of various illicit substances, including powder fentanyl, counterfeit fentanyl pills, and methamphetamine, directly from Burch.
Hubbard and Arnett were identified as key suppliers, providing the drugs to Burch for at least some of these transactions with undercover agents. Over the course of their criminal enterprise, the group collectively distributed nearly two kilograms of methamphetamine and more than 350 grams of fentanyl or fentanyl analog mixtures.
During several of these drug transactions, Burch was observed with a firearm, either nearby or tucked into his waistband, further escalating the severity of the offenses.
Investigation and Prosecution
The successful investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Apopka Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman prosecuted the case.
The sentences underscore the Department of Justice’s commitment to combating the distribution of dangerous narcotics like fentanyl and methamphetamine, particularly when coupled with illegal firearm possession, to protect communities from drug-related crime.
