Fort Wayne Meth Ring Busted: 7 Face Federal Charges

FORT WAYNE, IN – Seven individuals are facing federal charges following a sweeping indictment announced today, alleging a large-scale drug and firearms operation that saturated Northern Indiana with dangerous narcotics. Frederick Morgan II, Frederick Morgan Sr., Monica Duvalon, Larry Lamb, Sarah Waltz, Eddie Knox, and James Russell Jr. are all accused of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl.

The 19-count indictment details a conspiracy spanning from May 6, 2019, to August 26, 2020. U.S. Attorney Thomas L. Kirsch II didn’t mince words, stating, “Today’s drug and gun charges allege that many highly addictive controlled substances were flooding the streets of Northern Indiana, which increases the propensity for violence, particularly when firearms are present.” The investigation, a joint effort between the ATF and DEA, uncovered a network allegedly responsible for distributing significant quantities of illicit drugs throughout the Fort Wayne area.

The charges don’t stop at conspiracy. Frederick Morgan II faces a staggering 15 counts of distributing controlled substances, alongside one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises. Monica Duvalon is looking at two additional distribution counts, while Frederick Morgan Sr. shares the same fate. Larry Lamb is facing a particularly complex situation: two additional distribution counts, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and two counts of providing a firearm to a felon. Waltz and Russell Jr. each face an extra distribution charge. Eddie Knox is hit with five additional distribution counts, plus one count for maintaining a drug-involved premises.

“The individuals arrested today, allegedly peddled poison into our communities,” declared DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Gannon. “This group is allegedly responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl and crack cocaine throughout Fort Wayne area.” Gannon emphasized the importance of collaborative law enforcement, stating that removing these drugs and firearms from the streets is a “big win.” ATF Special Agent in Charge Kristen de Tineo echoed this sentiment, highlighting the agency’s commitment to investigating felons in possession of firearms and those fueling the narcotics trade in Fort Wayne.

The investigation involved a broad coalition of law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service, Indiana State Police, Allen County Sheriff’s Department, Allen County Drug Task Force, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Huntington Police Department, Auburn Police Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey R. Speith and Brent A. Ecenbarger are prosecuting the case. Authorities stress that the indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The potential sentences, should any of the defendants be convicted, will be determined by a judge based on federal statutes and sentencing guidelines. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and the serious consequences faced by those who profit from the misery of others. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds, bringing you the unvarnished truth from the federal courthouse.

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