Alexander Christian Gruber, Methamphetamine Trafficking and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Idaho 2015

Methamphetamine Kingpin Sent to Prison

Alexander Christian Gruber, 20, of Boise, Idaho, has been sentenced to 36 months in prison for his role in a methamphetamine trafficking operation, and for illegally possessing a firearm, according to a recent court ruling. U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson announced the sentencing, which also includes three years of supervised release after Gruber serves his prison term.

Gruber pleaded guilty to the charges on September 15, 2015, after being arrested by Boise police officers on January 20, 2015. The undercover operation that led to Gruber’s arrest involved a sawed-off shotgun and Dilaudid pills being sold to an undercover agent. Earlier in January 2015, Gruber offered to sell cocaine to a confidential informant, but it turned out to be methamphetamine.

At the time of his arrest, Gruber was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing any firearm. The short-barrel shotgun was not registered as required, and Gruber admitted to possessing the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. He also admitted to selling the firearm and possessing other firearms.

”These penalties handed down by the federal court for possession of meth with intent to distribute it and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon are appropriate despite the young age of the defendant,” said Olson. “While special consideration is given by the courts to young defendants like Gruber, the penalties are appropriate because of society’s concerns about persons who traffic in harmful drugs and use firearms.”

The case was investigated by the Boise Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Gruber’s guilty plea was entered on September 15, 2015, and the sentencing was handed down today.

Gruber’s case serves as a reminder of the severe consequences that come with trafficking in methamphetamine and illegally possessing firearms. The federal court’s decision to impose a 36-month prison sentence and three years of supervised release sends a clear message that these crimes will not be tolerated.

As Gruber begins his prison term, the community can rest assured that those who engage in methamphetamine trafficking and illegal gun possession will be held accountable for their actions.

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