Robert J. Smith, Jr., Methamphetamine Distribution, Illinois 2017

Robert J. Smith, Jr. Sentenced for Methamphetamine Distribution in Illinois

A Randolph County man has been sentenced to federal prison for his role in a massive methamphetamine distribution ring in southern Illinois. Robert J. Smith, Jr., 48, of Sparta, was sentenced to 188 months in prison for his involvement in the conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to the United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, the methamphetamine offense occurred between 2014 and September 2016 in Perry, Randolph, St. Clair, and Franklin Counties. Evidence presented at the plea and sentencing hearings revealed that Smith was part of a large-scale operation involving numerous individuals in the distribution of ice, a highly pure form of methamphetamine.

At sentencing, the court found that Smith was responsible for the distribution of approximately 7.9 kilograms of ice. This alarming amount of narcotics indicates the severity of the operation and the impact it had on the community.

The investigation into the methamphetamine distribution ring is ongoing and has been a collaborative effort between the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Perry County Sheriff’s Office, Percy Police Department, Steeleville Police Department, Illinois State Police, Sparta Police Department, and the Southern Illinois Drug Task Force. The Randolph County States Attorney’s Office also assisted in the investigation.

Robert J. Smith, Jr. has been held accountable for his actions and will serve 188 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a fine of $400. The harsh sentence reflects the gravity of the offense and the need to hold individuals accountable for their role in the distribution of deadly narcotics.

The sentencing of Robert J. Smith, Jr. serves as a reminder of the importance of community efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and methamphetamine distribution. Law enforcement agencies and local authorities must continue to work together to identify and prosecute those responsible for these crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdil/pr/randolph-county-man-sentenced-methamphetamine-offense-3