Raymond Eugene Best Jr, Meth Trafficking, Montana 2026

⏱ 2 min read

Raymond Eugene Best Jr, a 44-year-old Billings man, has pleaded guilty to trafficking significant amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine in Montana. The guilty plea was entered on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, which could land Best a minimum of 15 years to life imprisonment. The investigation, which began in 2023, revealed that Best was part of a larger drug trafficking ring sourcing narcotics from Mexico to Wyoming, South Dakota, California, Montana, and other areas.

According to court documents, law enforcement received a tip in June 2023 that Best was the main supplier of methamphetamine in Billings, bringing in 50-100 pounds of the drug and tens of thousands of ‘blues’. Further investigation led to the execution of search warrants, resulting in the seizure of 7 grams of fentanyl pills, 16.7 grams of meth, and approximately 2.77 pounds of methamphetamine.

Best’s guilty plea is a significant blow to the drug trafficking ring, which had been operating in the area for some time. The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presiding. Sentencing is set for September 24, 2026, and Best remains detained pending further proceedings.

The investigation and subsequent guilty plea demonstrate the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in Montana. The case highlights the importance of cooperation between agencies and the use of informants to gather intelligence and bring perpetrators to justice.

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