U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich, representing the District of Montana, announced the successful dismantling of a fentanyl trafficking ring in Great Falls. The operation led to federal convictions for ten individuals and charges against others in state court. This was revealed during a press conference at the Great Falls Civic Center, attended by Great Falls Police Chief Jeff Newton, Cascade County Attorney Joshua Racki, and members of the Russell Country Drug Task Force.
"Taking down fentanyl trafficking rings to reduce drug-related violence and overdoses and death caused by this extremely dangerous drug is critical to the health and safety of our communities, like Great Falls," said U.S. Attorney Laslovich. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies in achieving this outcome.
Great Falls Police Chief Newton highlighted the efforts made by the Russell Country Drug Task Force this year, noting significant seizures of methamphetamine and cocaine compared to 2023.
Cascade County Attorney Racki stated, "The Cascade County Attorney’s Office is dedicated to combatting the influx of illicit drugs by holding accountable those who bring them into our communities."
The investigation began in fall 2022, tracing back to a supplier based in Tacoma, Washington. Joseph Allen Conner was identified as a key figure in distributing fentanyl pills across Montana. His arrest occurred in June 2023, followed by coordinated arrests of other defendants in October 2023. Conner pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges and received a five-year federal prison sentence.
The operation resulted in confiscating tens of thousands of fentanyl pills and several firearms. Other convicted individuals faced various sentences for their roles within the organization.
Among those sentenced were Nicholas Cocklin from Great Falls (one year), Alanna Corcoran (Glacier drug court), Terry McIntire (two-and-a-half years), Michael McIntire (12 months plus one day), Paul Regimbal (12 months plus one day), Iesha Berry-Harris from Tacoma (15 months), David Prien-Pinto from Great Falls (five years), Courtney Price from Great Falls (three years two months), and Casey Louis Ream from California (eight years eight months).
The case was handled under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces initiative, which focuses on disrupting high-level criminal organizations through multi-agency cooperation.