Vaughn Meth Dealer Horton Gets 3+ Years

GREAT FALLS, MT – Donnovan Orville Horton, 52, of Vaughn, Montana, is headed to federal prison after admitting to running a meth distribution operation out of his home – a location disturbingly close to an elementary school. Horton received a sentence of three years and eight months today, followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich announced.

The case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey K. Starnes, stemmed from an investigation by the Russell Country Drug Task Force and the FBI. In December 2022, authorities began receiving information that Horton was a source for methamphetamine in the area. Undercover officers confirmed the tip, making a total of four purchases – one in Great Falls and three directly from Horton’s residence in Vaughn.

The proximity of Horton’s drug operation to the elementary school was a significant factor in the severity of the charges. A search warrant executed on Horton’s property revealed not only methamphetamine and associated drug paraphernalia, but also equipment used for the manufacturing of hash oil. Adding to the danger, investigators also recovered four firearms from the scene, less than 200 feet across the street from the school.

Horton pleaded guilty in January to possession with intent to distribute meth and being a drug user in possession of firearms. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided over the sentencing, clearly signaling a zero-tolerance stance for drug dealing, especially when it endangers children. The government’s court documents paint a picture of a brazen operation conducted with blatant disregard for community safety.

This prosecution is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive program designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence at the local level. Launched in 2021, the program emphasizes building trust with communities, supporting violence prevention initiatives, and focusing enforcement efforts where they are most needed.

The investigation highlights the ongoing struggle against methamphetamine trafficking in Montana. While Horton is now behind bars, the Russell County Drug Task Force and FBI continue to work tirelessly to dismantle similar operations and protect the citizens of Montana. The case serves as a stark reminder that drug dealing, particularly near schools, will be met with swift and severe consequences.