Sabino Gonzales, Crystal Methamphetamine Trafficking, Ohio 2016

Ohioans Charged with Smuggling Crystal Meth from California

A 20-count indictment has been handed down against 10 Ohio residents for their roles in a crystal methamphetamine trafficking ring that brought large shipments from California.

The indictment outlines a conspiracy that operated from June 2015 through March 2016, during which time Carlos Elias, 33, of Massillon, received large shipments of methamphetamine from Hector Sabino Gonzales, 36, of Los Angeles, via FedEx or UPS. Elias also received shipments from other California-based individuals.

According to the indictment, Elias sent cash via FedEx, UPS, and the U.S. mail to Gonzales to pay for the drugs. The cash was then used to purchase crystal methamphetamine from various sources in California.

The indictment also charges Elias with distribution of heroin. Richard Stewart, 57, of Akron, is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The remaining defendants have been charged with conspiracy and various distribution charges related to the trafficking ring.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Riley following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Stark County Safe Streets Task Force.

Defendants named in the indictment include: Hector Sabino Gonzales, 36, of Los Angeles; Carlos Elias, 33, of Massillon; Lisa Elias, 36, of Massillon; Jance Randolph, 33, of Canton; Michael Mack, 39, of Akron; Nikki Greenwood, 37, of New Philadelphia; Richard Stewart, 57, of Akron; Robert Willham, 45, of Medina; Steven Petit, 35, of Akron, and Wilmer Martinez, 25, of Painesville.

Conviction sentencing will be determined by the court after a review of the federal sentencing guidelines and factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal record (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

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