BEAUMONT — Operation Time Machine in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.

Carl Sampson Solomon, 28, of Port Arthur pleaded guilty Wednesday to possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime before U.S. Magistrate Judge Earl Hines.

According to information presented in court, on March 17, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant in the 2200 block of Third Avenue in Port Arthur.  During the search, officers discovered approximately 7.47 grams of crack cocaine as well as a 9 mm pistol. A federal grand jury indicted Solomon on Apr. 21, 2010 and charged him with federal gun and drug trafficking violations.

This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods’ Operation Time Machine program. Operation Time Machine is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in Port Arthur, Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

Solomon faces up to 40 years in federal prison at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.

This case is being investigated by the Port Arthur Police Department and the ATF and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Baylor Wortham.