STEELEVILLE, IL – Franklin Scott Denault, 39, known on the streets as “Frankie D,” is headed to federal prison after receiving a 125-month sentence for his role in a widespread methamphetamine and heroin distribution network across Southern Illinois. The sentence, handed down November 22, 2016, by U.S. District Court, Southern District of Illinois, closes a chapter in a multi-agency investigation that’s already put ten co-conspirators behind bars.
Denault, of Steeleville, pled guilty to a two-count indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to distribute heroin. Federal prosecutors detailed how Denault was a key player in sourcing and moving both drugs – including highly potent “ice,” methamphetamine with a purity level of at least 80% – throughout Perry, Jackson, and Randolph Counties between 2013 and June 2015. The operation wasn’t small-time; evidence presented at the sentencing revealed Denault was responsible for the distribution of over 108 grams of ice and 43 grams of heroin.
According to U.S. Attorney Donald S. Boyce, Denault and his crew made repeated trips to St. Louis to acquire “dealer amounts” of heroin, effectively fueling the opioid crisis locally. He wasn’t just moving product, either. Denault actively distributed the ice to a network of individuals, expanding the reach of the deadly drug. The $600.00 fine levied against him feels like a pittance considering the damage he inflicted on the community.
This wasn’t a solo operation. Law enforcement officials confirmed that ten co-defendants have already been sentenced for their involvement in the drug conspiracies. Another awaits sentencing, suggesting the network was extensive and deeply rooted. The sheer number of agencies involved – from the Randolph, Jackson, and Perry County Sheriff’s Offices to the Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team and the DEA – highlights the scale of the problem and the resources required to dismantle it.
The investigation, which remains ongoing, involved a coordinated effort between numerous local and federal agencies, including the Percy Police Department, Steeleville Police Department, Mascoutah Police Department, DuQuoin Police Department, Pinckneyville Police Department, and the Perry County Drug Task Force. Crucially, the Randolph and Perry County States Attorney’s Offices also lent their expertise to the case, proving that interagency cooperation is vital in tackling complex drug trafficking operations.
In addition to the 125 months imprisonment, Denault will face three years of supervised release after his incarceration. While this conviction provides some measure of justice, the damage caused by Denault’s actions will linger long after he’s served his time. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in Southern Illinois.
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Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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