Jack Reid III, Cocaine Trafficking Conspiracy, New York 2024

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Jack Reid III, the 49-year-old kingpin of a Williamsville cocaine trafficking ring, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara today. The sentence also mandates 10 years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

Reid’s downfall began after he was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine. His reign of drug dealing, spanning from 1990 through April 2012, saw him use family members and others as drug couriers, distributing over 50 kilograms of the substance.

The cocaine supply originated from sources in Rochester and New York City, as well as Atlanta, Georgia, before being distributed across Erie and Niagara Counties. Reid’s operation was a significant blow to law enforcement efforts against drug trafficking in the region.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch led the sentencing process, emphasizing that Reid’s network extended far beyond local borders. The DEA, Lackawanna Police Department, and Lockport Police Department were instrumental in the investigation that culminated in today’s sentencing.

In addition to his prison term and supervised release, Reid was ordered to forfeit $1,000,000 and two properties located in Williamsville and Amherst, N.Y. This sentence sends a clear message that federal authorities will hold major drug traffickers accountable for their crimes.