Isiah Ti-Quan Clements, also known as "Zay," from Troy, New York, has entered a guilty plea to charges of marijuana trafficking and money laundering. The announcement was made by United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III alongside several law enforcement officials, including Bryan Miller from the ATF's New York Field Division and Frank A. Tarentino III from the DEA's New York Division.
John A. Sarcone III stated, “This prosecution of a sophisticated marijuana trafficking and money laundering organization was made possible by the close collaboration of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies on both coasts. Marijuana remains illegal under federal law and we continue to investigate and prosecute the criminal organizations profiting mightily from its illicit distribution.”
Clements admitted involvement in a drug trafficking organization that cultivated marijuana in Fresno, California, distributing it across the United States. He acknowledged receiving shipments at his home and other locations in Troy and coordinating with others involved in the operation.
The court heard that between June 2018 and May 2022, Clements managed approximately 1,102 kilograms (2,429 pounds) of marijuana shipments. He also engaged in various money laundering activities using proceeds from these operations.
Clements faces significant legal consequences for his actions, with potential penalties including at least ten years up to life imprisonment on charges of conspiracy to distribute marijuana and commit money laundering. The sentence will be determined based on specific legal guidelines.
The case involves multiple defendants charged with related offenses; some have pled not guilty while others have already entered guilty pleas. This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces initiative aimed at dismantling high-level criminal networks.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cyrus P.W. Rieck and Dustin C. Segovia are leading the prosecution with support from agencies like the ATF, DEA, Troy Police Department, and HSI.