Theotis Thornton, a convicted felon from Little Rock, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his involvement in distributing methamphetamine and phencyclidine (PCP) and possessing firearms as a felon. This announcement was made by Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. The sentence was delivered by United States District Judge D. P. Marshall, Jr.
Thornton, aged 42, faced charges following a superseding indictment on November 6, 2024. He was accused of possessing over 500 grams of methamphetamine, more than one kilogram of PCP, and firearms possession as a felon. Thornton pleaded guilty to all charges on December 4, 2024.
On January 8, 2021, officers from the United States Marshal’s Service attempted to execute an arrest warrant for Thornton’s brother at their residence in Little Rock. While Thomas Thornton was not present, Theotis Thornton was found at the location and informed officers about his brother’s absence.
Both brothers were on active parole with search waivers in place. Officers detained Theotis Thornton for safety reasons and conducted a sweep of the premises where they found a loaded firearm and drug paraphernalia visible inside the house. A search of Theotis Thornton’s vehicle revealed over 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine along with additional paraphernalia and a magazine matching the firearm discovered earlier.
Further investigation led detectives to obtain a warrant to search a safe found during the sweep. Inside were multiple bags containing pills and tablets, six bottles holding 8,826 grams of PCP, $27,000 in cash, documents linked to both brothers, and six firearms including three Springfield Hellcat pistols and two Bushmaster rifles.
In addition to his prison term, Judge Marshall imposed five years of supervised release on Thornton post-incarceration; federal sentences do not include parole options.
Thornton has previous convictions related to marijuana distribution intent and aggravated residential burglary.
The case involved efforts from several agencies including the Little Rock Police Department with support from U.S. Marshals Service alongside DEA and ATF contributions. Assistant United States Attorney Bart Dickinson led prosecution efforts.
