In a recent verdict that has the local community talking, a Taylor man was handed a 43-year prison sentence for cocaine trafficking charges. Barry Deshawn White, 47, met this fate following a jury conviction from Williamson County for possessing and intending to deliver cocaine.
White's conviction follows an investigation sparked by an anonymous tip in November 2024, which alerted authorities to possible illegal narcotics sales at a Taylor residence, according to a press release from the Williamson County District Attorney's Office. During surveillance, detectives observed White engaging in what appeared to be drug transactions from his vehicle. When law enforcement searched his vehicle, they discovered 66 grams of marijuana, 12 grams of cocaine, along with a digital scale and small Ziplock bags commonly used in drug sales, the KXAN report detailed.
This is not White's first encounter with the law. His criminal history is well-documented, with past convictions that include evading and resisting arrest, possession of controlled substances, and assault. He was previously arrested in 2008 for felony possession with intent to deliver cocaine, as stated by the CBS Austin coverage.
Williamson County District Attorney Shawn Dick expressed the county's stance on the issue, stating, "This verdict and sentence send a clear message that drug trafficking has no place in Williamson County." He continued, "Our office remains committed to working with law enforcement to disrupt these illegal operations and hold repeat offenders accountable, ensuring the safety of our community," as reported by CBS Austin. At the time of his latest offense, White was out on felony bonds for another drug-related case, as well as a firearm case.
