Local Man’s Marijuana Empire Crumbles
In a shocking turn of events, 38-year-old Eric Vallee of Sutton, Massachusetts, pleaded guilty to two counts of manufacturing marijuana and possessing marijuana with intent to distribute in federal court in Worcester.
Seizure of Marijuana and Equipment
A search of Vallee’s home in Auburn, Massachusetts, uncovered a large commercial-style marijuana grow operation, yielding more than 100 marijuana plants, approximately seven pounds of marijuana packaged for distribution, a cash-counting machine, and approximately $13,000 in cash.
Vallee relocated to a house in Sutton, Massachusetts, where he continued to oversee the operation. A subsequent search of the Sutton home revealed 55 marijuana plants, approximately seven pounds of marijuana packaged for distribution, and a cash-counting machine.
Severe Consequences Ahead
Vallee faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Law Enforcement Collaboration
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation in Boston and the Auburn and Sutton Police Departments, with valuable assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Abely of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
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Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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