BUFFALO – Timothy J. Billings, 31, of Whitesville, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to conspiracy to manufacture, possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine.  The charge carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $5,000,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan T. Cullinane, who is handling the case, stated that between January of 2011 and Oct. 25, 2011, the defendant conspired to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine. In order to avoid restriction on the purchase of pseudoephedrine, an important chemical in the methamphetamine manufacturing process, Billings engaged in the practice of “smurfing” (buying small quantities) at local pharmacies.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 1.

from US Dept. of Justice via IFTTT