Brian L. Redden Gets 12 Years for Cocaine Possession in Alton

Alton man Brian L. Redden, 32, is headed to federal prison for 151 months after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The sentence, handed down February 22, 2017, marks the end of a swift fall for Redden, who has been locked up since his arrest in May 2016.

On May 20, 2016, Alton police raided a location tied to Redden and found an ounce of cocaine, over $2,000 in cash, a digital scale, and other drug paraphernalia. The evidence painted a clear picture: Redden wasn’t just using—he was selling. He admitted to the charges during his change of plea hearing on November 9, 2016.

There was no jury trial, no drawn-out defense. Redden cut a deal and took his lumps. Federal prosecutors didn’t need to dig deeper—what they found on the scene was more than enough to seal his fate. Possession with intent to distribute is a serious federal offense, and Redden is paying for it with over a decade behind bars.

The Alton Police Department led the investigation that brought Redden down, executing the arrest and gathering the physical evidence that tied him to the drug operation. Local law enforcement continues to target mid-level distributors like Redden as part of broader efforts to choke off the flow of narcotics in Southern Illinois.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert L. Garrison prosecuted the case for the federal government. Donald S. Boyce, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, confirmed the sentencing, underscoring federal commitment to cracking down on drug crimes that destabilize communities.

Redden’s 151-month sentence reflects the severity of federal drug laws, especially when tools of the trade—like scales and bulk cash—are found at the scene. He’ll be 45 by the time he walks out. No early release. No second chances. Just time.