PEORIA, Ill. – A Pekin man is going to federal prison for 25 years after being convicted of federal methamphetamine-related charges.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office says a judge Tuesday sentenced Thomas Wright, 44, to 300 months in prison, followed by ten years of parole, after pleading guilty last July to Conspiracy to Distribute Meth, and Possession of Meth with Intent to Distribute.
Prosecutors claim Wright worked others to pool money used to buy large amounts of meth, then redistribute it throughout Peoria and Tazewell Counties.
A judge noted Wright’s prior state drug convictions, and also said he had a “poor upbringing,” but that his actions contributed to “a cycle of drug use in the community,” according to a news release.
“The message is clear: if you choose to make a career of dealing highly addictive, community-wrecking drugs, you will be held accountable,” said Assistant United States Attorney Katherine G. Legge, in the news release. “Our steady pursuit of these cases will continue so that we can keep our communities safe from the top drug dealers who peddle this potent substance.”
Wright will be housed in a facility where he can receive drug treatment.
