An Indianapolis man, who has been found guilty of drug trafficking and carrying firearms, is now facing a potential life sentence, as announced by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana.
Manuel L. Brown, a 49-year-old resident of Indianapolis, has been convicted of multiple charges including trafficking methamphetamine, carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a gun.
On September 3, 2020, the Fishers Police Department noticed a Dodge Caravan committing several traffic violations, as per court documents. They proceeded to pull over the vehicle and identified the driver as Brown. A K9 officer was called to the scene, and it was suspected that there might be drugs inside the vehicle.
During the search of the car, the authorities discovered various illegal items. These included a glass smoking pipe that had traces of methamphetamine, as well as three loaded revolvers – two .22 caliber and one Smith and Wesson. Additionally, they found a zippered case containing a loaded .45 caliber pistol, multiple plastic bags containing a total of 214 grams of methamphetamine, 20 grams of heroin and fentanyl, two digital scales, plastic bags for packaging drugs, a night vision rifle scope, multiple boxes of ammunition, and $1750 in cash.
Zachary A. Myers, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, emphasized that combating illegal guns and dangerous drugs is of utmost importance in our communities. He declared that individuals involved in drug trafficking while armed will remain a top focus for federal prosecution.
Officers discovered messages pertaining to drug trafficking and images of firearms during their examination of data on Brown’s phone.
Brown was previously convicted of criminal confinement, which made it illegal for him to possess firearms under federal law.
According to Myers, the trial conviction serves as a testament to the exceptional skills and unwavering commitment of the officers, agents, and prosecutors involved in thwarting the defendant’s criminal activities and ensuring his accountability. Myers believes that the actions taken by these individuals have significantly contributed to making Hamilton County a safer place.
Brown could potentially face a life sentence in federal prison.
