Tyree M. Neal, Jr., Cocaine Conspiracy, Illinois 2017

A Williamson County Resident Received a Harsh Sentence for Cocaine Offense

Marion, Illinois resident Tyree M. Neal, Jr., 30, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for a cocaine offense, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois, Donald S. Boyce, announced today. The sentence comes after Neal pleaded guilty to a one-count indictment charging conspiracy to distribute cocaine.

The evidence presented at the plea and sentencing hearings established that from at least 2012, through August 2014, Neal was involved in the distribution of cocaine in Williamson County. The investigation revealed that Neal sold cocaine to confidential sources working for law enforcement on multiple occasions. Furthermore, Neal attempted to recruit other persons to kill certain witnesses who had cooperated against him.

On September 12, 2014, federal and local law enforcement attempted to arrest Neal on a federal drug warrant. However, Neal fled from the police in his vehicle, almost striking a police officer and ramming into a police vehicle. The pursuit continued for 17 miles, with Neal traveling at speeds in excess of 100 m.p.h. and forcing other vehicles off the road. After crashing his vehicle in rural Williamson County, Neal carjacked a van that was occupied by a young female and three minor children.

The district court found Neal responsible for the distribution of more than 13.4 kilograms of cocaine and 5.9 grams of crack cocaine. Neal's sentence was enhanced due to his use of violence, obstruction of justice, and reckless endangerment to others while fleeing from the police. Additionally, Neal's extensive criminal history led to his classification as a Career Offender.

The investigation was conducted by the Southern Illinois Enforcement Group, with assistance from the Marion Police Department, Williamson County Sheriff's Office, and United States Marshals Service.

Neal was sentenced to 360 months' imprisonment, followed by 6 years' supervised release, and fined $400.00. The evidence presented during the sentencing hearings established the severity of Neal's crimes and the need for a harsh sentence to protect society.

The case serves as a reminder of the dangers of cocaine trafficking and the consequences of engaging in such activities. The Southern Illinois Enforcement Group and its partners will continue to work tirelessly to combat drug trafficking and bring those responsible to justice.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdil/pr/williamson-county-resident-sentenced-30-years-imprisonment-cocaine-offense