Willie J. Butler, Crack Distribution, Illinois 2015

A devastating blow has been dealt to the streets of East St. Louis, Illinois, as a notorious crack dealer has finally faced justice. Willie J. Butler, 34, from East St. Louis, Illinois, pled guilty on March 27, 2015 in federal district court, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to one count of “crack” cocaine distribution.

The guilty plea comes after a lengthy investigation by the Metropolitan Enforcement of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI), which uncovered a trail of evidence linking Butler to the sale of a deadly substance. Court proceedings revealed that Butler admitted to selling approximately 0.75 grams of cocaine base in the form of “crack” on January 10, 2014 to an undercover officer in East St. Louis, Illinois.

Butler now faces a prison term of up to 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000 or both, as well as a minimum of 3 years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 17, 2015 at 10 a.m.

The case was investigated by the Metropolitan Enforcement of Southwestern Illinois (MEGSI) and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel T. Kapsak. This is a stark reminder that the war on drugs will not be won overnight, but with continued efforts from law enforcement and the judicial system, we can make a difference in our communities.

As the people of East St. Louis continue to suffer the effects of crack cocaine, it is imperative that we hold accountable those responsible for perpetuating this destructive cycle. Willie J. Butler’s guilty plea is a crucial step in the right direction, and we hope that it will serve as a warning to others who would seek to peddle this poison on our streets.

The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and bring you updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, let us remember the countless lives that have been torn apart by the scourge of crack cocaine, and let us recommit ourselves to the fight against this menace.

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