A federal grand jury has indicted Charles Barker, 70, of Niagara Falls, New York, on several drug and firearm charges. U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that Barker faces charges including narcotics conspiracy, attempt to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to life imprisonment, and a fine of up to $10 million.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt I. Kass said the indictment alleges that between June 11 and June 17, 2025, Barker conspired with others to receive large quantities of methamphetamine at his home in Niagara Falls for resale. On June 17, law enforcement searched Barker’s residence and found significant amounts of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, cash, as well as a shotgun and ammunition. Due to a felony conviction in Niagara County Court in April 2012, Barker is legally barred from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Barker was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and has been released on home confinement.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York Field Division and the United States Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division.
“The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty,” according to the statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
