Austin man sentenced to 40 years for drug trafficking

AUSTIN, Texas – An Austin man was sentenced to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to drug trafficking.

According to the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office, on July 15, 2023, DPS officers stopped a vehicle driven by 61-year-old William Bryant and found a bag with fentanyl in the vehicle. Further investigation revealed Bryant to be a drug dealer, leading to the execution of a search warrant at his home.

During the search, officers seized a variety of narcotics, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, mushrooms, and marijuana. Seven firearms and two stolen motorcycles were also found. 

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During sentencing, prosecutors presented evidence of Bryant’s role in an aggravated kidnapping that happened six days after the search of Bryant’s home. 

“Bryant’s criminal activities posed a serious threat to public safety.  Bryant’s guilty plea and lengthy sentence are a significant victory for our community and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our prosecutors and law enforcement partners. Today’s sentence sends a clear message that drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Williamson County,” said District Attorney Shawn Dick.

Bryant was sentenced to 40 years in prison and fined $10,000 by a jury after pleading guilty to manufacturing or delivering a controlled substance.