WASHINGTON — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)), published as received.

WASHINGTON – A two-count Indictment unsealed today in U.S. District Court charges Aman Mehari Weldemariam, 34, of the District of Columbia, with two counts of unlawful distribution and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. 

“Methamphetamine destroys lives, fuels crime, and threatens the safety of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro. “As alleged, the defendant distributed large quantities of this dangerous drug while operating businesses in the heart of the District. We are committed to aggressively prosecuting drug traffickers and protecting the District from those who put profit ahead of public safety.”

Weldemariam owns the Green Island Café and Club Heaven and Hell in Adams Morgan. He was arrested this morning outside a residential apartment building in Northeast Washington, D.C., where he was in possession of a kilogram of suspected cocaine powder. Law enforcement recovered from his residence a fully loaded firearm and approximately 140 Suboxone strips.  Law enforcement also searched his businesses and recovered an additional 200 Suboxone strips, a digital scale, and narcotics packaging material. 

Weldemariam made his first appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Moxila A. Upadhyaya. He is being held pending his Wednesday detention hearing. 

The Indictment alleges that on July 16, 2026, Weldemariam distributed more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. The Indictment also alleges that on Aug. 3, 2026, Weldemariam additionally distributed more than 500 grams of methamphetamine.  

Weldemariam allegedly distributed a total of nearly eight pounds of methamphetamine in controlled sales.  Weldemariam was on probation at the time of the offenses for a prior 2017 drug-related conviction in Fairfax County and a 2020 drug-related conviction in Richmond County.  

This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office. The matter is being prosecuted by the Violent Crime and Narcotics Trafficking Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.  

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