FEDERAL JURY CONVICTS WALKER MAN OF DRUG DISTRIBUTION

Acting United States Attorney April M. Leon announced the conviction of Richard Lance Cline Jr., age 34, of Walker, Louisiana.  After a two-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge John W. deGravelles, the jury unanimously convicted Cline of distribution of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

As the evidence at trial demonstrated, on February 25, 2021 and March 3, 2021, Cline sold 50 grams or more of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer.  On March 9, 2021, he was arrested in possession of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine while attempting a third sale to an undercover law enforcement.

As a result of his conviction, Cline now faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, as well as significant fines, restitution, and supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert W. Piedrahita and Ellison C. Travis.