A traffic stop tied to an outstanding warrant led to a federal drug case that now carries a mandatory prison sentence.
Ruben Medina, 20, of Jamestown, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced Monday.
Prosecutors said Jamestown police stopped Medina on Sept. 11 after learning he had an outstanding probation warrant. Officers initially ordered him out of the vehicle, and although he first refused, he later complied and was taken into custody.
During a search, officers recovered about 109 grams of methamphetamine, according to federal authorities.
The case also stems from an earlier search on June 25 at a Newland Avenue residence connected to Medina. Investigators said they seized cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, suboxone strips, $200 in cash, a digital scale, and a firearm from the home.
Medina entered his guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy. The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years, and a possible fine of up to $5 million.
Federal officials said the case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide Justice Department initiative focused on drug trafficking, violent crime, and transnational criminal organizations.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jamestown Police Department. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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