Oneil Anthony Findley, a 28-year-old resident of Jackson, Wyoming, was found guilty by a federal jury on December 11. The charges included attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine, use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug offense, and drug conspiracy. The trial took place over three days under U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H. Rankin.
The investigation involved the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the United States Postal Inspection Service. They discovered that cocaine was being sent to Jackson through the mail. A package containing over a pound of cocaine was intercepted by postal inspectors and addressed to Findley's P.O. Box under a fictitious name. Findley was apprehended when he tried to collect the package.
During questioning, Findley denied knowing about the cocaine but gave inconsistent statements regarding the fictitious name and the sender's identity. Phone records showed his communication with the sender and his activities related to tracking the shipment online, as well as discussions about narcotics distribution with others. The prosecution successfully demonstrated that Findley was aware of the package's contents and intended to distribute it.
Acting United States Attorney Eric Heimann stated, “This conviction makes it clear that drug traffickers will be prosecuted and punished for poisoning Wyoming communities.” He also expressed gratitude towards the Postal Inspection Service and DCI for their efforts in this investigation.
Bryan Musgrove, Inspector-in-Charge of USPIS Denver Division, emphasized their commitment: “United States Postal Inspectors are dedicated to maintaining the sanctity of trust placed in the US Mail." He added that they would "aggressively pursue anyone who uses the US Mail to transport and distribute deadly drugs."
Findley's sentencing is scheduled for February 28, 2025. He could face up to 44 years in federal prison along with three years to life of supervised release, fines up to $2.25 million, and a $300 special assessment.
The case was investigated by both the United States Postal Inspection Service and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold led the prosecution.