Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana
Richard Lance Cline Jr., a 34-year-old resident of Walker, Louisiana, has been convicted by a federal jury for drug distribution. Acting United States Attorney April M. Leon announced the verdict following a two-day trial overseen by U.S. District Court Judge John W. deGravelles.
The jury found Cline guilty of distributing methamphetamine and possessing it with the intent to distribute. Evidence presented during the trial revealed that on February 25 and March 3, 2021, Cline sold over 50 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer. He was arrested on March 9, 2021, while in possession of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine during an attempted third sale to another undercover officer.
Cline's conviction could lead to a maximum life sentence, along with significant fines, restitution, and supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert W. Piedrahita and Ellison C. Travis.
