TYLER, Texas – A 42-year-old Deberry, Texas man has pleaded guilty to federal drug violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.

Keith Earl Kates pleaded guilty to possession of pseudoephedrine with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine today before U.S. Magistrate Judge John D. Love.

                According to information presented in court, on May 11, 2010, Kates purchased cold pills containing at Walgreens and WalMart stores in Marshall, Texas, all in furtherance of his methamphetamine manufacturing activities.  Kates was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 11, 2011.

Kates faces up to 20 years in federal prison.  A sentencing date has not been set.

                This case is being investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division and the Panola County Sheriff's Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Ann Cozby.

###

Return to Top