Lexington Man Gets 10 Years for Methamphetamine Conspiracy

A 25-year-old Lexington man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a methamphetamine conspiracy that trafficked over 500 grams of the potent drug into the state.

Leopoldo Ramirez, 25, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced May 2, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard handed down the sentence of 132 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ramirez’ release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.

The investigation into the conspiracy, which operated from at least June 2021 until October 2022, was led by the CODE Drug Task Force, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Officers from a variety of local, state, and federal agencies pieced the conspiracy together using electronic evidence, surveillance, and search warrants. Ramirez’s cell phone was seized and searched, revealing multiple text messages between Ramirez and other co-conspirators discussing drugs and narcotic distribution.

Additionally, Ramirez kept a list of pay/owe status for drugs he distributed, indicating approximately 50 additional grams of meth that he had personally distributed in the course of the conspiracy.

The methamphetamine and fentanyl conspiracy had a devastating impact on the community, and law enforcement agencies worked tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.

Assistant United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced the sentencing, praising the work of the investigative agencies involved in the case.

“This case is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement partners,” Lehr said. “Their efforts have made our community safer, and we will continue to work to hold accountable those who engage in this type of activity.”