Cincinnati, Ohio – A father and son from Cincinnati have been sentenced to lengthy federal prison terms after authorities dismantled their high-level drug trafficking operation. Stephen Wheeler, 49, and his son, Romello Wheeler, 30, lived an extravagant lifestyle while distributing large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana across the region and beyond.
Stephen Wheeler was sentenced to 180 months in prison on June 20, while Romello Wheeler received a 150-month sentence back in April. Their prison terms follow a lengthy investigation that spanned from July 2022 to February 2023 and ultimately revealed the scale and sophistication of their criminal network.
According to court records, the Wheelers operated a well-financed drug trafficking enterprise. The two shared a luxury apartment in downtown Cincinnati, paying over $4,000 a month in rent. In addition, they maintained a separate home for $1,000 per month used specifically for drug storage and operations.
During an eight-month surveillance period, investigators documented their use of nine different high-end vehicles and frequent travel throughout the United States and even internationally. One highlight of their lavish lifestyle included securing front-row tickets with field passes for the Halftime Show at the Super Bowl in Los Angeles.
Guns, Drugs, and Cash Found in Bust
Law enforcement eventually executed searches at multiple residences tied to the Wheelers. These searches uncovered a massive cache of drugs and assets: approximately 1,317.9 grams of fentanyl, 1,678.3 grams of nearly pure crystal methamphetamine, 962.5 grams of cocaine, $190,000 in bulk cash, and more than $395,000 worth of jewelry. A loaded armor-piercing pistol was also recovered, adding to the seriousness of the charges.
The father and son each pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Third Co-Defendant Sentenced
A third person, Mikelle D. Hill, was also implicated in the drug trafficking scheme. Hill was found to have assisted the operation by allowing the use of a truck and storage unit registered in her name. She was sentenced to four months in prison for her role.
The sentencing brings closure to a case that not only involved deadly narcotics but also showcased the boldness of individuals who attempted to hide their criminal activity behind a veneer of wealth and luxury.
