Raleigh, NC – In a major blow to a regional drug trafficking organization, Tony Chevallier, 40, of Clinton, North Carolina, has been sentenced to 360 months in prison, followed by 10 years of Federal Supervised Release.
Chevallier was one of 25 co-defendants federally indicted in October 2016 and charged with Conspiring to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, the most severe drug charge one can receive at the federal level.
The jury found Chevallier and his codefendants guilty of the crimes charged after nearly two weeks of evidence presentation that included multiple community witnesses, local and federal law enforcement testimony, forensic, financial and narcotic experts, testimony from co-defendants, and a myriad of other evidentiary sources.
Chevallier’s extensive criminal history, which includes dozens of previous convictions ranging from violent crimes, property crimes, and drug trafficking crimes, was a key factor in the Court’s decision to impose a 30-year sentence. The Court also credited witnesses who came forward to assist in the prosecution of Chevallier, whose information assisted law enforcement in better understanding the regional nature in which Chevallier operated.
The investigation, which relied on multiple agencies and offices at both the federal and state levels, utilized confidential informants, undercover officers, constant physical surveillance, a Title III wiretap, and a myriad of other investigative techniques to uncover the depth and breadth of crimes furthered by the DTO.
The investigation determined that Chevallier trafficked large quantities of drugs throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Highlighting the commitment to criminal activity as demonstrated by Chevallier, the Court noted one example, citing that Chevallier was released from prison in Georgia on February 20, 2016 after being convicted of a Felony Cocaine Trafficking charge in November 2013. Evidence gathered in this current case showed Chevallier returned immediately to large scale drug trafficking upon his release from custody until he was arrested federally in late 2016.
Chevallier’s sentencing marks a significant victory for law enforcement and the community, and serves as a reminder of the severe consequences of engaging in organized crime. The Court’s decision sends a clear message that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable and face severe punishment.
Defendant/Respondent: Tony Chevallier
Criminal Charges: Conspiring to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine
City and State: Clinton, North Carolina
Exact Date: May 2018
Sentence or Outcome: 360 months in prison, followed by 10 years of Federal Supervised Release
Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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