GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls man who admitted to traveling outside of Montana to obtain large quantities of heroin for resale throughout the state has been sentenced to 78 months in prison.
Brocktin James Russo, 31, pleaded guilty in September 2021 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Russo admitted to selling several kilograms of heroin per month and claimed that more than $2 million in heroin passed through his hands during the four years.
The government alleged in court documents that for four years, Russo traveled out of state to acquire large amounts of heroin for resale in Montana. In January 2021, law enforcement seized more than 500 grams, which is a little more than one pound, from Russo’s suitcase in a traffic stop.
Russo admitted to traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada, and to Chicago, Illinois, to obtain heroin. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided over Russo’s sentencing hearing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey K. Starnes prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Russell Country Drug Task Force and the Great Falls Police Department.
The case highlights the ongoing struggle against heroin trafficking in Montana. Heroin addiction has ravaged communities across the state, and law enforcement agencies continue to work tirelessly to disrupt the supply chain and bring those responsible to justice.
Russo’s sentence sends a strong message that heroin trafficking will not be tolerated in Montana. The community can rest a little easier knowing that one of the state’s most prolific heroin traffickers is behind bars.
As the state continues to grapple with the heroin epidemic, it is essential that law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the community work together to prevent the flow of illicit drugs into our state.
Related Federal Cases
- Amgen Pays $71M for Pushing Drugs Off-Label · Idaho
- Amgen Inc. $71M Settlement · Idaho
- Western Union Scam · Idaho
- Vegas Meth & Heroin Kingpin Gets 8+ Years · Illinois
- Heroin Conspiracy Lands Local Man in Hot Water · Arizona
Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News