Lamar Man Sentenced to 15+ Years for Meth Distribution

Kelly Bruce Duncan, Jr. pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Kelly Bruce Duncan, Jr., a 43-year-old man from Lamar, Arkansas, has been sentenced to 188 months (over 15 years) in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing battle against the distribution of methamphetamine, a highly addictive and destructive drug, in rural communities across the United States. The lengthy prison sentence reflects the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating these drug crimes.

The details

Duncan was initially indicted on three counts: possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He pleaded guilty to the drug charge in September 2025. During the incident in June 2024, Duncan fled a traffic stop, leading officers on a high-speed chase before surrendering. Authorities recovered methamphetamine, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and evidence of ounce-level drug sales from Duncan.

  • On June 8, 2024, Duncan fled a traffic stop, leading to a 21-minute pursuit covering 35 miles at speeds up to 112 mph.
  • On September 29, 2025, Duncan pleaded guilty to the drug charge.
  • On February 10, 2026, U.S. District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky sentenced Duncan to 188 months (over 15 years) in federal prison.

The players

Kelly Bruce Duncan, Jr.

A 43-year-old man from Lamar, Arkansas who pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to over 15 years in federal prison.

Jonathan D. Ross

The United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas.

Lee P. Rudofsky

The U.S. District Judge who sentenced Duncan to 188 months in federal prison.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing battle against the distribution of methamphetamine, a highly addictive and destructive drug, in rural communities across the United States.”

— Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas

The takeaway

The lengthy prison sentence handed down in this case underscores the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating drug trafficking crimes, especially those involving highly addictive substances like methamphetamine. This sends a strong message that such criminal activity will be met with significant consequences.