A woman from Marathon County has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for her role in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Jessica L. Colby, aged 29, from Stratford, Wisconsin, received her sentence from U.S. District Judge William M. Conley. Her prison term will be followed by three years of supervised release. Colby had pleaded guilty to the charge earlier this year, on January 31, 2025.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation that started in early 2024 by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force. The investigation targeted a group allegedly involved in distributing large amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine in Marathon County. Colby was identified as an integral facilitator within this group.
In March and April of 2024, a series of controlled methamphetamine purchases led task force officers to search the residence Colby shared with co-defendant Joshua Lake. During the search, officers seized approximately 2 kilograms of methamphetamine, 1 kilogram of cocaine, two rifles, over $24,000 in cash, drug ledgers, and other drug trafficking items.
Further investigation outlined Colby’s role, which included assisting in the distribution of about 23 kilograms of methamphetamine and 6 kilograms of cocaine between January 22, 2024, and April 15, 2024. Her tasks included collecting and delivering bulk drug shipments and handling payments to sources connected to the cartel. Colby admitted to having her customers as well.
In court, Judge Conley considered both the seriousness of Colby’s offenses and her previous clean criminal record, as well as her conduct while out on pretrial release.
Three others have been implicated in this drug trafficking conspiracy. Mercadys Perkins was sentenced to six years in prison on April 17, 2025, while Dustin Brunker received a seven-year sentence on April 24, 2025. Joshua Lake has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing on June 4, 2025.
The charge against Colby was part of an investigation carried out by the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force, comprising FBI agents and local law enforcement. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also played a part in the investigation, as did the Marathon County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson.