Rodney Varela, Armed Methamphetamine Trafficking, Indiana 2020

Columbus, Indiana resident Rodney Varela, 38, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his role in an armed methamphetamine trafficking operation.

On March 10, 2020, law enforcement officers found Varela in possession of approximately 135 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded pistol while driving his vehicle. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered an additional 700 grams of pure methamphetamine and five firearms.

Varela, a previously convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He was also on parole at the time of the offense, further exacerbating the severity of his actions.

The investigation into Varela’s activities was a collaborative effort between the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers praised the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who prosecuted the case.

The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Richard L. Young, who also ordered that Varela be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years following his release from federal prison.

Varela’s numerous prior felony convictions in California and Indiana make his sentence all the more fitting. His actions not only put himself at risk, but also endangered the community through his involvement in the illicit methamphetamine trade.

As the Grimy Times continues to cover crime stories in the Hoosier state, we remain committed to shedding light on the complexities of the justice system and the impact of crime on our communities.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Drug Trafficking

Armando Ortega, Possession with Intent to Distribute, Indiana 2012

Apr 30, 2015

Drug Trafficking

Lockett Pair, Crack Cocaine Charges, Ohio 2013

Mar 12, 2015

Drug Trafficking

Daron Buford, Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Heroin, West Virginia 2017

Mar 7, 2019

Drug Trafficking

Richard Thomas, Crack Distribution, New York 2018

Sep 21, 2018