A Illinois man was sentenced to 20 years in a federal prison for offenses, including drug trafficking and unlawful use of firearms.
Benjamin William Norville, 29, of Galesburg, was sentenced after being convicted for possession and intent to distribute 50 grams of ice methamphetamine along with possession of a firearm and drug trafficking crimes, according to a March 30 U.S. Department of Justice news release.
“This case demonstrates what drug dealers can expect when they sell drugs and carry guns in our community," Attorney Alyssa Raya said in the release. "Our office commends the first responders called to this extremely volatile situation and their dedication to keeping the community safe.”
According to the release, Norville had two loaded and stolen guns in his possession, along with several different types of narcotics. Norville's criminal record shows this was his seventh felony and sixth conviction related to methamphetamine.
“Deadly drugs and deadly weapons fuel violence and suffering, casting a dark shadow over our communities," said David Nanz, special agent in charge of the FBI Springfield field office. "In every case, the FBI and our law enforcement partners bring to bear the combined strength of our resources to track down criminals like Norville and protect our Illinois cities and towns. The significant sentence handed down today reflects our determination to combat and deter the distribution of narcotics and the illegal possession of weapons.”
