On December 17, 2024, Shannon Ray Ault from Spokane Valley, Washington, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for drug distribution charges. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke, who also imposed five years of supervised release.
Court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing revealed that in February 2024, investigators from the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) conducted a "controlled buy" of two pounds of methamphetamine from Ault. This operation was closely monitored by ATF agents.
Following the controlled buy, Ault was arrested in Spokane. At the time of her arrest, she was found with several fentanyl pills on her lap inside her car. A search of her vehicle led to the discovery of $1,627 in cash and an airsoft gun resembling an AR-style rifle. Additionally, drug ledgers were found confirming Ault's involvement in distributing significant quantities of methamphetamine and illicit fentanyl pills.
U.S. Attorney Waldref stated: “Ms. Ault was responsible for distributing a significant quantity of deadly drugs into our community." He emphasized the importance of collaboration with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement to combat illegal narcotics and criminal drug networks.
Jonathan Blais, ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge, remarked: “ATF will always investigate those causing great harm to our communities.” He added that the sentence is appropriate for Ault's illegal actions.
The case was investigated by both the ATF and the Drug Enforcement Administration.