Defendant Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – A shocking tale of crime and deception has unfolded in the sleepy town of Watertown, New York. Odell Tindley, 30, of Ithaca, New York, has pleaded guilty to being a member of a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.

According to investigators, Tindley admitted to distributing 83 grams of cocaine in Watertown on May 25, 2021, and arranging for the delivery of methamphetamine later that day. A search of a vehicle driven by an associate of Tindley resulted in the recovery of 904 grams of methamphetamine and approximately a pound of marijuana.

The case was investigated by the Metro-Jefferson Drug Task Force, consisting of Special Agents from U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol Agents, Detectives from the Watertown Police Department, Detectives from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, and Investigators from the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Southwick and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Tuck are prosecuting the case. At sentencing on July 26, 2023, Tindley faces a minimum sentence of ten years and maximum sentence of life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million dollars, and a post-imprisonment term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life.

The case highlights the devastating impact of drug trafficking on communities. As the investigation revealed, Tindley’s actions put the lives of innocent people at risk. The guilty plea serves as a reminder of the consequences of such crimes.

United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman, Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Buffalo, New York Field Office, and Jefferson County District Attorney Kristyna S. Mills made the announcement.

The case is a testament to the hard work and dedication of law enforcement agencies working together to combat crime. The Metro-Jefferson Drug Task Force’s efforts have led to the disruption of a significant drug trafficking operation, and we hope that this guilty plea will bring closure to the victims and their families.

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