GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: In a massive sweep targeting synthetic drug trafficking organizations, a federal grand jury in Utah has indicted 14 individuals for conspiracy to distribute spice and money laundering. Nine of the defendants also face charges for financial shenanigans.
The indictment seeks the forfeiture of property including real estate in Hurricane, Heber City, and Spanish Fork; bank accounts; money orders; and vehicles tied to the alleged operation.
Among those charged are Brian Merrill, 28, Joshua Davis, 37, Buck Andersen, 33, Joseph Givogre, 42, Gary Jolley, 58, and Alicia Brandom, 31. The defendants are part of a sprawling network that has been active since at least 2011.
The investigation was launched after Illinois law enforcement discovered thousands of packets of Spice shipped from St. George, with brands like “Gods of Spice” and “Blue Heaven.” HSI agents also intercepted shipments of chemicals coming from China.
Most of the defendants are currently under supervision, while others await their day in court. The arraignment is scheduled for August 5th before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert T. Braithwaite.
The charges carry severe penalties, with a conspiracy count carrying up to 20 years in federal prison and $1 million fine, and each money laundering charge comes with a 10-year sentence and a $250,000 fine.
Related Federal Cases
- Utah’s ‘Spice Kingpins’ Face Federal Charges · Washington
- Utah Man Jergensen Gets 59 Months for $2.5M Plattsburgh Scam · Illinois
- Crystal Lake Man Sentenced for Dark Web Meth Distribution · Illinois
- NY AG Secures $720M from Eight Opioid Drug Companies · North Carolina
- 23andMe Faces Legal Fire for Genetic Data Sale · Washington
Key Facts
- State: Utah
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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