Meth Kingpin Gets 100 Months

Coulterville, IL – In a major blow to the region’s methamphetamine trade, Brian T. Lane, a/k/a Squirrel, 32, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for his role in the manufacture and distribution of the highly addictive substance.

Lane, who had previously pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and manufacture methamphetamine, was sentenced by a federal judge for actions that took place between 2013 and June 2015, in Perry, Jackson, and Randolph Counties.

At sentencing, the judge found that Lane was responsible for the possession of 151.88 grams of pseudoephedrine and 2 grams of ice/methamphetamine. Lane obtained and collected pseudoephedrine from others for use in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

The ongoing investigation, which is still active, has already led to the sentencing of two co-defendants and the guilty pleas of five others, who are awaiting sentencing. Four more co-defendants are set to stand trial in April.

The investigation was a collaborative effort between multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Drug Task Force, Percy Police Department, Steeleville Police Department, Mascoutah Police Department, Illinois State Police Methamphetamine Response Team, DuQuoin Police Department, Pinckneyville Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration. The Randolph and Perry County State’s Attorney’s Offices also assisted in the investigation.

Assistant United States Attorney Amanda A. Robertson was assigned to prosecute the case. Lane was also fined $200.00 and will serve 3 years of supervised release after his prison sentence.

This sentencing is a significant victory in the ongoing fight against methamphetamine use and distribution in Southern Illinois. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.