Californians Charged in Methamphetamine Conspiracy

An indictment has been handed down against two California residents accused of participating in a large-scale methamphetamine conspiracy in Southern Illinois.

Marcos Becerra, 29, and Francisco Ramirez-Quintero, 44, both of Richmond, CA, were charged with participating in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and for possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. The two face a minimum of 10 years up to a maximum of life in federal prison if convicted.

The charges are related to a June 24, 2014, seizure of methamphetamine. The investigation is being conducted by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Cahokia Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.

An indictment is a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury.

Stephen R. Wigginton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, announced the indictment on Tuesday, June 16, 2015.

The charges against Becerra and Ramirez-Quintero carry significant penalties, and their case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat methamphetamine trafficking in the region.

The investigation and prosecution of this case is a prime example of the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies to keep our communities safe from the dangers of methamphetamine.

The indictment serves as a reminder that those involved in large-scale narcotics trafficking will be held accountable for their actions.