Bowling Green, KY, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Joshua Duncan, a 40-year-old from Bowling Green, has been sentenced to 18 years and four months in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearm possession. He was convicted of possessing over 4,600 grams of methamphetamine and nearly 600 grams of fentanyl, along with several illegal firearms. Duncan’s criminal history hindered his ability to legally own guns, leading to significant legal repercussions. His case emphasizes ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug-related crime in the Kentucky area.
A Bowling Green man, Joshua Duncan, has been sentenced to 18 years and four months in federal prison. The 40-year-old was convicted of multiple serious offenses, including possessing with intent to distribute significant quantities of illicit drugs and firearms violations.
On February 15, 2024, law enforcement seized 4,667 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 574 grams of fentanyl from Duncan in Warren County. His illegal possession of firearms included a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver, a Springfield Armory .45 caliber semiautomatic pistol, a Ruger .380 caliber semiautomatic pistol, and a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol. Duncan’s criminal background prevented him from legally owning firearms due to previous felony convictions involving drug trafficking.
Convictions and Sentencing Details
Duncan was caught possessing firearms as part of his drug trafficking operations, leading to his federal conviction on multiple counts. His prior convictions for first-degree trafficking in controlled substances took place on March 11, 2010, August 27, 2012, and August 21, 2018, all involving cocaine or methamphetamine. Due to the severity of his crimes, federal law does not allow for parole, which means Duncan will serve the full duration of his sentence.
Additional Drug Trafficking Arrests
In a separate incident in Bowling Green, law enforcement officers conducted another drug bust resulting in the arrests of two individuals. Terrence O. Matthews, aged 35, was apprehended on charges of first-degree trafficking in crack cocaine, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of marijuana. Tamia O. Matthews, 27, was arrested for first-degree trafficking in fentanyl, with firearm enhancements included.
This drug operation led to the seizure of two handguns, suspected crack cocaine, powder fentanyl, as well as 87 Xanax tablets, nine hydrocodone tablets, and $1,323 in cash. The arrests were a result of collaborative efforts by the Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force and the Kentucky State Police West Interdiction Team, emphasizing a continuous focus on tackling drug trafficking and enhancing community safety.
Context on Drug Trafficking in the Area
The prevalence of drug-related crimes, particularly involving potent substances such as fentanyl and methamphetamine, remains a significant issue in Kentucky. State and federal law enforcement organizations have intensified their operations to combat drug trafficking, which often intertwines with violent crime, including illegal firearms use. Through ongoing investigations and targeted interventions, authorities aim to disrupt distribution networks operating in local neighborhoods and reduce the overall impact of drugs on the community.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Joshua Duncan highlights the legal repercussions of drug trafficking and firearm offenses, showing the commitment of law enforcement to safeguard communities from the dangers posed by illegal substances and violent crimes.
FAQs
What was Joshua Duncan sentenced for?
Joshua Duncan was sentenced for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as for various firearm offenses.
How long is Duncan’s prison sentence?
He received a sentence of 18 years and four months in federal prison.
What substances were found in Duncan’s possession?
Law enforcement found 4,667 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 574 grams of fentanyl.
What firearms did Duncan possess?
Duncan possessed a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver, a Springfield Armory .45 caliber semiautomatic pistol, a Ruger .380 caliber semiautomatic pistol, and a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol.
What are the implications of federal sentencing?
Federal sentences do not allow for parole, meaning Duncan must serve the entirety of his sentence.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject | Joshua Duncan’s sentencing for drug trafficking and firearm possession. |
| Sentence | 18 years and four months in federal prison. |
| Substances Involved | 4,667 grams of methamphetamine and 574 grams of fentanyl. |
| Firearms | Four different types of firearms possessed illegally. |
| Related Arrests | Two individuals arrested in a separate drug trafficking incident. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Man Sentenced for Drug and Gun Offenses
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
- WNKY: Bowling Green Man Sentenced for Drug Distribution
- Google Search: Drug Trafficking Kentucky
- BG Daily News: Police News
- Google Scholar: Fentanyl Trafficking
- BG Daily News: Additional Police News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Crimes
- WBKO: Residents Arrested After Drug Trafficking Investigation
- Google News: Bowling Green Drug Arrests
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
