Vernon man pleads to federal meth charges

A Vernon man has pleaded guilty in federal court to three methamphetamine charges.

Conrad J. Wynn, 28, pleaded guilty last Thursday to conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, according to A. Courtney Cox, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Illinois.

Wynn also pleaded guilty to a count of possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a count of possession of products, chemicals and materials for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine.

The two counts alleging possession, distribution and manufacture of methamphetamine carry a penalty of 10 years to life in prison, as well as a fine of up to $4 million. The count alleging the possession of methamphetamine-manufacturing chemicals and products is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

Wynn’s sentencing has been set for Dec. 4, Cox said.

The indictment filed in federal court alleged Wynn’s participation in a methamphetamine operation in Marion County on March 14 of this year.

This investigation into methamphetamine manufacturing activity was primarily conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Illinois State Police, Patoka Police Department and Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Marion County State’s Attorney.

The investigation was conducted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods DRAGUN Team Initiative, a cooperative effort of local, state and federal law enforcement and state and federal prosecuting authorities, aimed at ridding communities of illegal drugs and guns.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kit Morrissey.