Crime boss Todd Hamilton, 36, of Bellingham, Washington, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for his role in a massive drug distribution network that terrorized the community. His reign of violence and intimidation came to an end as U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced Hamilton’s sentence.
In court, Judge John C. Coughenour expressed relief that Hamilton is no longer on the streets, commending the collaborative efforts between local and federal law enforcement for dismantling the criminal organization.
Hamilton, who had previously served time in Washington State prison, was released in January 2011 to resume his drug trafficking operations. He operated a heroin and methamphetamine ring that brought significant quantities of drugs into Whatcom County, where he redistributed them for profit. His home search in December 2011 revealed large amounts of drugs, ledgers, and a firearm.
DEA agents discovered Hamilton’s weekly purchases of drugs worth tens of thousands of dollars, including his recruitment of a Department of Corrections employee to aid in his drug trafficking activities. This employee is also charged and convicted for his involvement.
Hamilton pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm on April 1, 2013. Prosecutors requested a 21-year sentence, noting the potential unknown extent of Hamilton’s violence against vulnerable addicts. The investigation was part of an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) initiative.
The case was investigated by various federal and state agencies, including the DEA, Washington State Patrol, ATF, and the Skagit County Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Jill Otake and Roger Rogoff prosecuted the case.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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