Little Rock, Arkansas – A multi-convicted felon from Little Rock has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his major role in a drug distribution operation involving methamphetamine and PCP, and for illegally possessing multiple firearms. The sentencing of Theotis Thornton, 42, was announced by Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and handed down by United States District Judge D. P. Marshall, Jr.
Thornton pleaded guilty on December 4, 2024, to charges included in a superseding indictment issued by a federal grand jury on November 6, 2024. The charges included possession of 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession of one kilogram or more of PCP, and being a felon in possession of firearms.
Federal Arrest Warrant Uncovers More Than Expected
The case against Thornton began on January 8, 2021, when U.S. Marshals arrived at a Little Rock residence to execute a federal arrest warrant for Thornton’s brother, Thomas Thornton. Officers quickly learned that Thomas was not present, but Theotis answered the door and informed them that his brother was not home.
Both brothers were on active parole, and both had search waivers on file. Due to safety concerns, officers detained Theotis Thornton and conducted a safety sweep of the residence. What began as a routine arrest attempt quickly escalated when officers saw a loaded firearm in plain view along with drug paraphernalia throughout the home.
During the sweep, officers noticed surveillance cameras and a locked safe, items often associated with drug trafficking operations. A further search of Thornton’s vehicle parked outside the home revealed more than 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, a magazine matching the firearm found in the bedroom, and more drug paraphernalia.
Massive Drug Haul Found Inside Safe
Detectives obtained a warrant to search the safe, which turned out to contain a staggering amount of illegal materials. Inside were multiple bags of multi-colored pills, 6 bottles containing 8,826 grams of PCP, and over $27,000 in cash. Also found in the safe were documents belonging to both brothers, suggesting their deep involvement in the operation.
In total, law enforcement recovered six firearms, including three Springfield Hellcat 9mm pistols, two Bushmaster .223 caliber rifles, and one Glock model 27 .40 caliber pistol. These were found both in the residence and inside the safe.
“Theotis Thornton, a multi-convicted felon, will spend the next 20 years in federal prison for his significant role in a criminal organization that was responsible for distribution of methamphetamine and phencyclidine (PCP) in the Little Rock area and being a felon in possession of firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross.
No Parole and Supervised Release to Follow
In addition to his prison sentence, Thornton will serve five years of supervised release following his incarceration. There is no parole in the federal system.
Thornton’s prior convictions include possession with intent to distribute marijuana and aggravated residential burglary, which contributed to the length of his sentence under federal guidelines.
The case was thoroughly investigated by the Little Rock Police Department, with support from the U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney Bart Dickinson.
