Man convicted of selling drugs with his face on it

WASHINGTON — A face on every package and a following on social media—what started as a way to sell marijuana in Northeast D.C. soon became key evidence that led to a Maryland man's sentencing. 

Investigators say 28-year-old Tamonie Chambliss of Capitol Heights, Maryland, has been sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for felony firearm possession and drug trafficking. Chambliss, known by the alias “moneyman_biggs,” was involved in distributing marijuana in Washington, D.C., which he brazenly marketed using social media and packaging that featured his own face.

Chambliss pleaded guilty in June to unlawful firearm possession and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release following his prison term.

Chambliss’ involvement in the Clay Terrace neighborhood in Northeast D.C., was part of a larger criminal network. MPD and the FBI had been investigating a crew known as the “Clay Terrace Hitsquad” or “Double Back Gang,” believed to be involved in violent crimes and the sale of drugs, including PCP, crack cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. Law enforcement officials identified Chambliss as a key member of this group, specializing in marijuana distribution.

What set Chambliss apart was his use of social media to mass-market his products. He packaged his marijuana with a label that featured his face.

On March 7, 2023, a break in the investigation occurred when officers noticed suspicious activity around a gray Lexus sedan near Clay Terrace. The car, which had a stolen license tag, was unregistered. When officers approached, individuals near the car quickly dispersed, and Chambliss was linked to the car through a fake insurance card.

During a subsequent search of the Lexus, officers discovered a bag of oxycodone pills, nearly a kilogram of marijuana, a scale, and a 30-round extended magazine loaded with .45 caliber ammunition. Chambliss’ personal ID and vehicle registration were also found inside the car.

Further search warrants at two addresses associated with Chambliss revealed a Glock 30S .45 caliber handgun, ammunition, and additional marijuana. Despite a prior felony conviction in 2017 for a armed robbery, Chambliss admitted ownership of the weapon, a serious violation of the law.

On March 15, U.S. Marshals apprehended Chambliss at a home in Laurel, Maryland. There, they discovered approximately 3.4 kilograms of marijuana in plain view, confirming his continued involvement in drug trafficking.

Chambliss was later indicted on six charges, including unlawful possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a large-capacity ammunition feeding device.