Leonard George Carleton, Meth Trafficking, Montana 2021

MISSOULA, Montana – In a significant blow to the methamphetamine trade in the Missoula community, Leonard George Carleton, a 58-year-old resident, was sentenced to six years in prison for his involvement in the illicit activity. U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson announced the verdict following a guilty plea in December 2021 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents, the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office conducted a controlled buy of approximately 53.6 grams of meth from Carleton in May 2021. This marked the beginning of a thorough investigation that ultimately led to the recovery of over 2,800 grams, or approximately six pounds, of pure meth from his shop and vehicle on June 2, 2021. The sheer quantity of the substance, equivalent to about 22,106 doses, underscores the severity of Carleton’s actions.

The recovery of such a significant amount of methamphetamine is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of law enforcement agencies in the region. The Missoula High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force played a crucial role in investigating this case, which is part of the larger Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative.

Project Safe Neighborhoods is a U.S. government program aimed at reducing violent crime by targeting methamphetamine trafficking, armed robbers, firearms offenses, and violent offenders with outstanding warrants. Through this initiative, federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement partners in Montana collaborate to address the root causes of violent crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara J. Elliott prosecuted the case, which highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in combating drug trafficking. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided over the proceedings, delivering a stern verdict that reflects the seriousness of Carleton’s crimes.

Carleton’s sentence serves as a warning to those involved in the methamphetamine trade that law enforcement is vigilant and committed to bringing perpetrators to justice. The case is a significant victory for the Missoula community, which has been affected by the devastating consequences of methamphetamine use.

The recovery of over 2,800 grams of methamphetamine is a substantial blow to the drug trade in the region, and it is a testament to the effectiveness of the collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and the U.S. government in addressing violent crime.

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