Wisconsin Man Pleads Guilty To Meth Distribution

GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: A LaCrosse, Wisconsin native has admitted to his role in a massive methamphetamine conspiracy that spanned across Iowa and Minnesota. Ryan Michael Schroeder, 26, faced federal charges after pleading guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute at least 500 grams of meth.

The criminal enterprise, which operated from January 2012 to December 2014, saw Schroeder deal in multiple ounce quantities of the dangerous drug. His activities were centered in Hampton and Mason City, Iowa, with additional transactions in Minnesota. The conspiracy has been a thorn in the side of local law enforcement.

Sentencing is scheduled for after a presentence report is completed by United States District Court Chief Judge Linda R. Reade. Schroeder remains in custody and could face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, with life imprisonment as the maximum penalty. He also faces a staggering $10,000,000 fine, a special assessment of $100, and up to 5 years of supervised release.

The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney Jack Lammers, while the investigation was a collaborative effort between the North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office, Mason City Police Department, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, and Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.

Court file information for case 14-CR-3071 can be accessed at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/. Follow the latest updates on @USAO_NDIA for further insights into this gritty crime story.

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