Ramon Cortez Freeman, Heroin Distribution, Cedar Rapids IA, 2014

Cedar Rapids, IA – Ramon Cortez Freeman, a 35-year-old Chicago resident, was today sentenced to more than 30 years in federal prison for his role in a heroin distribution ring that resulted in a fatal overdose.

Freeman pleaded guilty on November 24, 2014, to distributing heroin that led to the death of another individual. He also admitted to selling heroin multiple times between January and July 2014. The case highlights the growing problem of high-purity heroin in eastern Iowa, which has contributed to a surge in overdoses.

According to Officer Bryan Furman of the Cedar Rapids Police Department and DEA Task Force, heroin purity in eastern Iowa has skyrocketed over the past five years. While traditional distributors would often “cut” their product with other substances, the new model in Cedar Rapids involves nearly 90% pure heroin, even in small quantities. This concentration means users often ingest several times more of the drug than intended.

In addition to the heroin charges, Freeman was also sentenced for possessing a stolen .45 caliber pistol loaded with ammunition. He had previously been convicted of three drug felonies in Chicago.

Chief Judge Linda R. Reade of the United States District Court sentenced Freeman to 365 months’ imprisonment on the death charge, 240 months for heroin distribution, and 120 months for the firearm charge. The sentences were ordered to be served concurrently. Freeman was also assessed a special fee of $500 and ordered to pay $9,782.84 in restitution to the family of the overdose victim.

The investigation into Freeman’s activities was conducted by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) with the DEA, Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Cedar Rapids and Marion Police Departments, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and the Sixth Judicial District Department of Correctional Services. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham prosecuted the case.

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