PEORIA, Ill. — In a stunning blow to the local drug trade, Crystal Bennett, 41, of Peoria, has been sentenced to 144 months in federal prison for attempting to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge James E. Shadid on April 18, 2024, after a lengthy investigation that revealed Bennett’s brazen attempt to retrieve a package containing over 50 grams of the highly-potent substance.
Bennett, known also as ‘Nancy Carpenter’ and ‘Crystal Waynette Silsby’, was first flagged for suspicious behavior when she claimed the package at a shipping company in East Peoria. Law enforcement’s swift action led to the discovery of the drugs, which had an astonishing 98% purity.
During a subsequent vehicle search, officers uncovered several drug ledgers, suggesting a deeper involvement in the drug trade. In September 2021, Bennett was arrested again with over 250 grams of meth, a stolen gun, heroin, and nearly $2,400 cash.
Bennett faced charges in October 2022, leading to her arraignment in January 2023. Although released on bond for a brief period, her bond was revoked following more serious allegations. A guilty plea was entered in September 2023, culminating in her current incarceration.
The case was a collaborative effort by the U.S. Department of Justice, DEA, and local police departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ronald L. Hanna and Keith Hollingshead-Cook led the prosecution team against Bennett.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News