Federal authorities have indicted Charles Adams, 40, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, on two counts related to the attempted possession of a chemical used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that Adams tried to obtain methylamine with the intent to produce methamphetamine on November 19 and November 22, 2024.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that Adams is charged with "two counts of attempted possession of a listed chemical with intent to manufacture a controlled substance."
The investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigations and United States Customs and Border Protection. Assistant United States Attorney K. Wesley Mishoe is handling the prosecution.
This case falls under Operation Take Back America, which is a national effort from the Department of Justice aimed at addressing illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and reducing violent crime. According to the Department of Justice's description (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), Operation Take Back America brings together resources from programs like the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
If convicted, Adams faces up to 40 years in prison as well as supervised release, fines, and a special assessment. Sentencing will be determined by a court based on federal statutes and sentencing guidelines.
Authorities emphasize that indictments are only allegations: "All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court."
