$4.3 Million Dollar Meth And Heroin Conspiracy Leads To Lengthy Prison Sentences For Eight Conspirators
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Eight members of a large methamphetamine and heroin drug trafficking organization were sentenced today for crimes involving conspiracy to distribute those drugs. Michael T. Hixson, Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Kansas City District Office announced the sentences that were handed down by United States Chief District Judge Greg Kays, of the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
“These individuals profited from the harm they caused our communities,” said Hixson. “Without caring for anyone else, they did all within their power to evade law enforcement by selling drugs in our neighborhoods. With the unwavering support and cooperation of our state and local partners, criminals like the ones sentenced these past few days are able to be brought to justice.”
Evidence gathered in this investigation detailed how the individuals involved in this conspiracy sold approximately $4,359,600 worth of methamphetamine and heroin in the Kansas City metropolitan area from 2010 through 2015. In all, 26 individuals were indicted in this investigation, and a dozen of the co-conspirators have already plead guilty and are awaiting sentencing. The sentences announced today deal with co-conspirators:
- Anthony R. Stevenson, 46, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., was sentenced to 22 years and aix months in prison
- Taylor L. Syas, 25, of Polo, Mo., was sentenced to eight years and four months in prison
- Paula R. Scott, 48, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., was sentenced to four years and 11 months in prison
- Gabriel Ruiz-Salazar, 35, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced to 15 years and eight months in prison
- Bryan D. Carroll, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced to six years and six months in prison
- Ryan A. Battagler, 39, of Kearney, Mo., was sentenced to 12 years in prison
- Franklin C. Carter, 28, of Grandview, Mo., was sentenced to eight years in prison
- Marion E. Brammer, 53, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., was sentenced to six years and three months in prison
This case was the direct result of extraordinary cooperation and investigative efforts between the DEA; the Buchanan County, Mo., Drug Strike Force; the Clay County, Mo., Drug Task Force; the Missouri State Highway Patrol; and the Caldwell County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Missouri.
