Methamphetamine and Heroin Ring Cracked

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA – Two men have been accused of running a large-scale methamphetamine and heroin distribution ring in Alaska.

According to a federal indictment, Branden Lee Anastasio, 24, of Anchorage, Alaska, and Ernie Benny Juarez, Jr., 34, of Stockton, California, conspired to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and heroin in Alaska.

Methamphetamine and Heroin Charges

The indictment charges Anastasio and Juarez with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 100 grams or more of heroin. The second count charges both men with actually possessing the narcotics with the intent to distribute them to others.

Penalties for the Charges

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Courter indicated that both men face a ten-year mandatory minimum sentence on the methamphetamine charges, with a maximum sentence of up to life in prison. The law also provides for a fine of up to $10 million dollars.

Investigation Led by U.S. Postal Inspection Service

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service led the investigation that resulted in the indictment in this case.

Indictment is Only a Charge

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

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