Antwian Marquis Johnson, 38, and Shannon Marie Johnson, 37, of Great Mills

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

The man behind the largest drug bust in Maryland history has now been convicted — nearly one year after detectives seized more than $2 million worth of cocaine and fentanyl in a takedown prosecutors are calling a major win for public safety.

Antwian Marquis Johnson, 39, of Great Mills, was found guilty on multiple drug-related charges after a five-day trial, according to the St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Investigators said Johnson was at the center of a massive narcotics operation that unraveled on Dec. 5, 2024, when detectives seized approximately 21.5 kilograms — about 47 pounds — of cocaine and fentanyl during coordinated raids in Southern Maryland.

Officials put the street value at over $2 million.

And they’re not shy about what it means.

“This verdict represents one of the most significant victories for public safety in our county’s history, which is a major milestone for narcotics enforcement in St. Mary’s,” State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling said.

Detectives also recovered more than $75,000 in cash, along with over 200 individually packaged bags of controlled substances ready for street-level sales. 

Prosecutors said the evidence made clear Johnson was operating a major drug enterprise with both bulk product and pre-packaged distribution materials.

The conviction included:

  • Possession of a large amount of cocaine;
  • Possession of a large amount of fentanyl;
  • Possession with intent to distribute cocaine;
  • Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl;
  • Maintaining a common nuisance for the distribution of CDS.

Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

Combined, Johnson faces up to 100 years.

Sterling said the investigation and trial work showed the strength of the county’s narcotics enforcement efforts. 

“The prosecution team, together with the Sheriff’s Office’s Vice Narcotics Unit, delivered outstanding investigative and prosecutorial results. Their commitment and expertise are exactly why our community—and the entire State of Maryland—are now protected from this dangerous trafficker.”

Johnson remains held without bond while awaiting sentencing.