Chicago man sentenced to six years in federal prison after pleading guilty to methamphetamine distribution conspiracy tied to operations across Northwest Indiana
Hammond, Indiana – A Chicago man will spend the next six years in federal prison after admitting his role in a drug distribution conspiracy that stretched across several months, federal authorities announced.
DeAndre Johnson, 42, of Chicago, Illinois, received a 72-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The sentence was imposed by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund, according to an announcement from United States Attorney Adam L. Mildred. Once Johnson completes his prison term, he will also serve two years under supervised release.
Court records show that Johnson participated in a drug distribution scheme that unfolded between October 2023 and March 2024.
During that time, prosecutors said he worked alongside co-defendant Fernando Porras Jr. and others to distribute controlled substances on six separate occasions. Investigators documented the activity as part of a broader effort to dismantle trafficking operations moving dangerous narcotics through the region.
Porras, who was previously sentenced in the case, received a prison term of 96 months for his involvement in the conspiracy.
Federal officials emphasized that the sentence reflects the serious consequences tied to drug trafficking. United States Attorney Mildred noted that Johnson’s decision to participate in the scheme ultimately cost him six years of his freedom. He credited coordinated law enforcement efforts for bringing the case to a close, pointing to the partnership between the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lake County Combined Task Force operating under the Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program.
The investigation relied on cooperation between multiple agencies, including assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, which helped analyze evidence connected to the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Toth prosecuted the case on behalf of the federal government. The sentencing marks the latest outcome in a broader effort by federal and regional authorities to target and disrupt networks responsible for distributing illicit drugs in communities across the area.
