GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE — Twelve men from Northeast Ohio have been indicted in a massive cocaine conspiracy, according to the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio and the FBI. The suspects, aged between 20 and 56, are accused of conspiring to possess and distribute multi-kilogram shipments of cocaine.
Named in the 27-count indictment are Troy Williams, Jason Phillips, Joseph Phillips, Anthony Evans, Louis Roberto, Relan Derby, Jack Houchens Jr., Jose Antonio Gonzales II, Vaughn Moore, Michael Bergant, David Bergant, and Lamont Thomas. Jason and Joseph Phillips are alleged to have obtained significant shipments from Derby and Williams.
The indictment reveals that the conspiracy spanned from 2010 to the present, with all suspects involved in redistributing the drugs across Ohio and beyond. The investigation was a joint effort by multiple agencies, including the FBI, DEA, IRS, ICE, and local police departments.
Robert F. Corts, Assistant U.S. Attorney, is handling the prosecution. Sentences will vary based on individual roles and criminal histories. No defendant will receive more than the statutory maximum, which in some cases will be significantly less.
This case exemplifies the NOLETF’s commitment to combating drug trafficking in Ohio through its High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) initiatives.
Remember, an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are guaranteed a fair trial where the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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