Lengthy Sentences Handed Down in Major Drug Conspiracy Case

Four individuals involved in a large-scale methamphetamine conspiracy were sentenced to 27 to 36 years in federal prison.Photo byTim PhotoguyonUnsplash

Four individuals involved in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution and money laundering conspiracy have been sentenced to lengthy federal prison terms, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of South Dakota announced Saturday.

The sentences, which range from 27 to 36 years, follow convictions for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and launder money.

Nathan Johnson, 39, of Denver, Colorado, pleaded guilty to both charges. He was sentenced to 36 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Michele Johnson, 48, of Steen, Minnesota, was sentenced to 31 years and eight months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. She pleaded guilty on July 29, 2024, and was sentenced in October.

Jesse Richmond, 51, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, received 24 years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to the same charges.

Tony Hunter, 53, also of Sioux Falls, was sentenced to 27 years in prison and five years of supervised release for his role in the conspiracy, the department stated.

The case involved the distribution of more than 300 pounds of methamphetamine, primarily transported from California to Sioux Falls. Over $450,000 in drug proceeds were laundered during the conspiracy, according to the department.

Nathan Johnson, the conspiracy's leader, coordinated the transport of methamphetamine from Southern California to Denver, where it was distributed to Richmond, Hunter, and Michele Johnson. The drugs were then further distributed in South Dakota and southwestern Minnesota.

Court records indicate that other co-defendants, including Alfred Siani, face pending cases.

The U.S. Attorney's Office stated that these sentences highlight the department's ongoing efforts to combat large-scale drug trafficking operations.

“These sentences should serve as a wake-up call to anyone transporting or distributing methamphetamine into South Dakota communities,” Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Steve Bell said.

“These four people are facing a combined 119 years in federal prison. Each sentence should provide the offender with ample time to reflect on the damage and destruction they’ve inflicted on so many lives.”