An accused South Nashville cocaine dealer who was keenly interested in getting his hands on a fully automatic machine gun now sits in the Metro Jail thanks to a meticulous six-week investigation by the South Precinct’s Crime Suppression Unit.
During early March, detectives learned that Otis Vernell Maclin, Jr., 19, was likely selling crack cocaine in the South Nashville area and was looking for someone who could broker a deal on firearms. Officers subsequently arranged for two crack purchases from Maclin. An undercover detective was also introduced to Maclin as a gun and low-level cocaine dealer. Earlier this month, the undercover detective made four cocaine buys from Maclin, all within 1,000 feet of Cole Elementary School, and discussed weapons transactions. During the discussions, it became apparent that Maclin wanted a fully automatic machine gun.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was contacted and two agents from the Nashville field office joined the investigation.
A final deal was arranged for Monday where Maclin would receive a fully automatic machine gun (provided by the ATF) in exchange for crack cocaine. At 7:30 p.m. Monday, Maclin delivered the cocaine to the undercover detective, took possession of the machine gun, and was immediately arrested. Maclin had given the officer 6.5 grams of crack. An additional four grams were found in his vehicle.
A search of Maclin’s 1253 2nd Avenue South home late Monday pursuant to a search warrant resulted in the seizure of two pistols, a sawed-off shotgun, and items used in the manufacture of crack cocaine. The residence is directly across the street from a day care center.
“Crack cocaine and a machine gun spell significant danger for any community,” Chief Ronal Serpas said. “The resolve and dedication of the South Precinct’s Crime Suppression Unit, along with that of our ATF partners, resulted in a successful conclusion of this case without anyone being hurt.”
Maclin is charged with a number of offenses, including unlawful possession of a machine gun, unlawful possession of a sawed-off shotgun, manufacturing and delivering crack cocaine, selling crack cocaine, possessing crack for resale, and driving on a suspended license. He is being held in lieu of $362,000 bond.
Otis Vernell Maclin
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