Phillip Larry Koss, Marijuana Distribution Conspiracy, Texas 2013

Phillip Larry Koss, a 59-year-old man from Waco, Texas, has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison for his role in a family-based marijuana distribution conspiracy. The sentencing comes after a federal jury convicted Koss of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 kilograms of marijuana.

The jury acquitted Koss of one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and one count of maintaining a drug involved premise. According to evidence presented during trial, Koss participated in a drug trafficking scheme by using his bank account to finance portions of the operation, including paying for cell phones, marijuana cultivating equipment, and other miscellaneous bills.

On November 29, 2013, authorities executed a search warrant at Koss' residence and discovered approximately 12 pounds of tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, several firearms, and $27,000 in U.S. Currency. Authorities also recovered approximately 200 pounds of marijuana resulting from related search warrants executed in California as well as traffic stops during this investigation.

Testimony revealed that Koss' son, Conner, among others, cultivated high-grade marijuana in the State of California and arranged for it to be transported to and distributed in the Austin area. Koss' four co-defendants, including his wife and two sons, have been convicted of their roles in the marijuana trafficking conspiracy and sentenced as a result of this investigation.

Last year, Conner Phillip Koss received a sentence of 121 months incarceration; Le'Ann Koss, 70 months incarceration; and, Brian Thomas Smith, two years incarceration. On January 7, 2015, Chad Koss was sentenced to three years probation including six months home confinement and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine.

U.S. District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr. also ordered Koss to pay a $1,000 fine and be placed on supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term. This investigation was conducted by the McGregor Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Yuba County (CA) Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant United States Attorney Mary F. Kucera prosecuted this case on behalf of the Government.

The sentencing of Koss brings an end to a lengthy investigation into the family-based marijuana trafficking scheme. The case highlights the importance of law enforcement working together to take down organized crime groups and bring those responsible to justice.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdtx/pr/waco-man-sentenced-federal-prison-role-family-based-marijuana-distribution-conspiracy