GREAT FALLS, MT – A wave of federal indictments and criminal complaints are hitting Montana courts, revealing a grim picture of drug trafficking, violent crime, and fraud plaguing the state. Several defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate judges last week, facing potentially lengthy prison sentences if convicted. The Grimy Times has compiled a breakdown of these cases, offering a raw look at the crimes shaking up communities across Montana.
The most serious charges center around the fentanyl trade. Terrence Derrell Milton, 34, of Spokane, Washington, was arraigned on March 22nd, accused of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and distribution of fentanyl. If convicted of the most serious charge, Milton faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine, and at least four years of supervised release. The FBI and Tri-Agency Task Force led the investigation, signaling a concerted effort to stem the flow of the deadly opioid into the state.
Firearms violations are also prominent. Brian Todd Olson, 37, of Helena, and Khalif Ali-Daquane Jackson, 36, of Decatur, Georgia, both pleaded not guilty to charges of prohibited person in possession of a firearm on March 26th and 24th respectively. Olson faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release, while Jackson faces the same potential penalties. Investigations were conducted by the Helena Police Department, Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Beyond drugs and guns, violent crime is also under scrutiny. Brandon Lee Romero, 29, of Poplar, is accused of robbery, carjacking, transportation of a stolen vehicle, and assault with a dangerous weapon. Romero’s alleged actions, if proven, represent a brazen disregard for public safety. He faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. The investigation was a collaborative effort by Fort Peck Law Enforcement Services, Williston Police Department, and Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office.
The federal crackdown extends to methamphetamine distribution. Joseph Patrick Mullaney, 46, of Butte, appeared in Missoula on March 28th, facing charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The potential penalty is severe: a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $10 million fine, and at least five years of supervised release. This case was the result of a joint investigation by the FBI, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Montana Highway Patrol, U.S. Probation Office and Drug Enforcement Administration. Another Missoula arraignment involved Scott Gilbert Apgar, 41, of Libby, charged with possession and distribution of controlled substances, potentially facing five to 40 years and a $5 million fine. Homeland Security Investigations, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation.
Not all crimes involve street violence or drugs. Gerry Alen Albus, 64, of Elmo, is accused of theft of government money and Social Security fraud. While seemingly less sensational, these crimes drain public resources and erode trust in government programs. All defendants were detained pending further proceedings, indicating the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating these cases. The U.S. Attorney’s Office reminds the public that all charges are accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Case references are available through PACER: 24-04, 24-01, 24-10, 24-08, and 24-19.
Related Federal Cases
- Shayden Bradley Westfall, Fentanyl Trafficking, Montana 2024 · Alabama
- Joseph Allen Conner, Fentanyl Conspiracy, Montana 2024 · Montana
- No Defendant Full Name, Opioid Abuse, Montana 2024 · Alaska
- Lambert Family Members Sentenced for Public Corruption Scheme, GREA… · Nevada
- Bruce Sunchild, Bribery Conviction, MT, 2023 · Nevada
Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Press Release
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