John Ways, Jr., Drug Paraphernalia Conspiracy, Nebraska 2014

A 13-day jury trial has resulted in a guilty verdict for John Ways, Jr., 48, of Omaha, Nebraska, for Conspiracy to Sell and Offer for Sale Drug Paraphernalia, Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, and being a Felon in Possession of Ammunition.

The evidence presented at the trial revealed that Ways operated head shops in Nebraska and Iowa called Exotica from approximately February 2010 to December 2012. The stores sold a variety of items, including drug paraphernalia and controlled substances such as bath salts, herbal incense, K2, and aromatherapy.

The jury also found that Ways laundered the proceeds from the sales of these items by conducting financial transactions at various banks and credit unions in the Omaha area.

Additionally, the evidence showed that Ways, a previously convicted felon, possessed 800 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition at one of his two residences.

The jury returned a Special Verdict forfeiting to the United States approximately $1,125,000.00 of funds, various items of drug paraphernalia, ammunition, gun safes, two vehicles, several computers and related equipment, and Ways' corporation, NKOSI, Inc.

Ways faces a combined possible maximum sentence of 55 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for November 20, 2014.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with the assistance of the Omaha Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Lincoln Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Council Bluffs Police Department, South Sioux City Police Department, University of Nebraska at Lincoln Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration.

John Ways, Jr. will face the consequences of his actions, and the community can rest assured that those who engage in illicit activities will be held accountable.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ne/pr/man-found-guilty-drug-paraphernalia-conspiracy