South Portland Dealer Pleads Guilty to Coke Sales

Lynel Moultrie, 43, admitted today to dealing cocaine to an undercover officer, facing up to two decades in federal prison. The transactions, confirmed by surveillance, occurred over a month-long period this past February and March. Moultrie wasn’t moving small amounts; authorities say he was a full-fledged dealer.

The Maine Drug Enforcement Agency initiated the sting, using an agent posing as a courier to make at least three purchases directly from Moultrie. Federal investigators backed up the buys with constant observation, building a solid case based on documented evidence. He now risks a $1 million fine in addition to the potential prison term.

A presentence report is being compiled by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal judge will determine the final sentence. The operation was a multi-agency effort, involving the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, MDEA, and police departments from South Portland and Gorham.

Moultrie’s conviction marks another drug dealer taken off the streets, though the impact will be temporary. The case underscores the continued flow of narcotics through Maine, and the ongoing efforts to disrupt the supply.

Source: U.S. Department of Justice