Nicholas Griffin, Meth Conspiracy, Iowa 2022

Nicholas Griffin, a 38-year-old resident of Sioux City, Iowa, has been sentenced to a significant amount of time in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy. On January 26, 2022, Griffin was handed a 214-month prison sentence in a federal court in Sioux City.

The charges against Griffin stem from his guilty plea on August 31, 2021, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. In addition to this charge, Griffin has a history of prior felony drug offenses, including possession with intent to deliver marijuana in Dickinson County in 2004, delivery of cocaine in Dickinson County in 2008, possession of MDMA with intent to deliver in Blackhawk County in 2008, and possession of marijuana with intent to deliver in Webster County in 2015.

Investigations revealed that from November 2020 through January 2021, Griffin and others distributed over 10 pounds of methamphetamine in the Webster and Hamilton County areas. However, their operation was brought to a halt when law enforcement attempted to stop the vehicle Griffin was driving in January 2021. Griffin led authorities on a high-speed chase, reaching speeds of over 100 mph, before ultimately crashing his vehicle into a utility pole in Fort Dodge, Iowa.

During the search of the vehicle, law enforcement seized approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine, about ½ gram of cocaine, about ¼ ounce of marijuana, and $7,559 in U.S. currency. Griffin’s actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law and a commitment to distributing dangerous substances to his community.

Griffin’s sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. As a result of his conviction, Griffin will serve 214 months’ imprisonment, followed by a ten-year term of supervised release. Griffin is currently in the custody of the United States Marshal and will be transported to a federal prison once his arrangements are complete.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Fort Dodge Police Department, Webster County Iowa Sheriff’s Office, Hamilton County Iowa Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa DCI Laboratory.

This case serves as a reminder that those involved in drug trafficking will face severe consequences. The distribution of methamphetamine and other controlled substances has devastating effects on individuals and communities, and those who engage in this activity will be held accountable. We commend the law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case for their dedication to keeping our communities safe.

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