Jimmy Randell Chason, 69, of Cairo, Georgia, has been indicted on three counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in the Northern District of Florida, according to a June 12 announcement by United States Attorney John P. Heekin.
Chason appeared for arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Charles A. Stampelos in Tallahassee. A change of plea hearing is scheduled for June 15 at 11:30 am before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Tallahassee. If convicted, Chason faces a sentence ranging from ten years to life imprisonment on each count.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and North Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas are investigating the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin. The indictment is described as an allegation by a grand jury that does not constitute evidence of guilt; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This prosecution falls under Operation Take Back America, described as “a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.” The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one among 94 such offices serving as principal litigators under direction from the Attorney General.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida advances community safety and quality of life by upholding the rule of law and protecting civil rights across northern Florida; operates from facilities in Tallahassee, Pensacola and Gainesville; enforces federal laws; defends national security; protects civil rights; secures public funds; covers 23 counties including Tallahassee and the Panhandle; and collaborates with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies through initiatives such as Project Safe Childhood and Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee, according to its official website.