Garage owner found guilty of drug counts
1/8/2013The owner of an Angola Road garage raided six months ago by federal officials admitted in federal court Monday that he intended to distribute more than 11 pounds of cocaine.
Albert Weathers, 45, of 8248 Country Brook Dr., Holland, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Toledo to conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, and attempt to possess cocaine with intent to distribute. He acknowledged that five kilograms of cocaine was shipped to Monster Garage Complete Automotive & Detailing, where it was then seized by federal officials during a July 12 raid.
“Mr. Weathers would admit delivery of five kilograms of cocaine was made to Monster Garage, which he owned and operated,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Weldon told Judge Jeffrey Helmick.
A $65,000 payment for the drugs was also seized by authorities and will be forfeited as part of a plea agreement, the federal prosecutor said.
Weathers and co-defendant Charles Johnson, 56, of 5540 Benore Rd., were arrested during the raid at the garage, which was conducted by Toledo Police, Gang Task Force officers, and FBI agents assigned to the Metro Drug Task Force.
Mr. Johnson faces similar charges and has a Jan. 14 court appearance before Judge Helmick.
After the verdict Monday, Judge Helmick continued a $100,000 property bond Weathers posted in October. No sentencing date was set.
Each of the counts carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life behind bars. A $20 million fine can also be imposed.
Defense attorney Thomas Szyperski declined to comment on the plea. Weathers also left the courthouse without comment.