In Waco today, 26-year-old Conner Phillip Koss and his mother, 60-year-old Le’Ann Koss, both of Hewitt, TX, were sentenced to 121 months and 70 months in federal prison, respectively, for their roles in a marijuana distribution scheme announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman.
In addition to the prison terms, United States District Judge Walter S. Smith, Jr., ordered that Conner and Le’Ann Koss each pay a $2,000 fine and be placed under supervised release for a period of five years after completing their prison terms.
On July 24, 2014, Le’Ann Koss pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana and one substantive count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. On June 26, 2014, Conner Koss pleaded guilty to the same charges. By pleading guilty, the defendants admitted that from October 2010 until November 2013, they conspired with family members and others to possess over 50 kilograms of marijuana.
Also sentenced today was Brian Thomas Smith, age 23. Judge Smith sentenced Smith to two years in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty in July to his role in the marijuana distribution scheme. Judge Smith also ordered Smith to pay a $1,000 fine.
Hewitt
Phillip Larry Koss, age 59, remains in federal custody awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty in March to one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Originally scheduled to be sentenced today, Phillip Larry Koss instead requested new counsel be appointed to represent him--a request which Judge Smith granted today. He faces up to five years in federal prison.
On Nov. 29, 2013, authorities executed a search warrant at the Koss’ residence and discovered approximately 12 pounds of tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, several firearms and some $27,000 in U.S. Currency. Court records allege that the defendants obtain high grade marijuana from the State of California and arrange for it to be transported to their residence in Hewitt for distribution. Authorities have also recovered approximately 200 pounds of marijuana resulting from related search warrants executed in California as well as traffic stops during this investigation.
The Koss’ other son, Chad, is scheduled for a re-arraignment hearing at 10:00am tomorrow before Judge Smith. He faces the conspiracy charge only.
This investigation is being conducted by the McGregor Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety and the Yuba County (CA) Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant United States Attorney Mary F. Kucera is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
