Evergreen Reporter

Justin Pedersen, 43, of Kuna, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine in the Treasure Valley, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.

Court records indicate that between November and December 2023, Pedersen distributed methamphetamine on four separate occasions, totaling 309 grams. Law enforcement officials also discovered an additional pound of methamphetamine hidden in a wall at Pedersen's residence during their investigation.

Pedersen's criminal history includes felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance, witness intimidation, and domestic battery with traumatic injury.

"Idaho enjoys strong partnerships between federal and local law enforcement and, together, we will continue to target and remove dangerous drug dealers from our communities," said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. "If you deal drugs in Idaho, you will face the consequences."

Boise Chief of Police Ron Winegar expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts: "I am grateful for the hard work of our federal partners, and specifically the Boise Police Department’s narcotics detectives who work hard every day to target for investigation those who facilitate the importation and sale of dangerous and deadly illegal substances in our community."

Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Pedersen to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Pedersen pleaded guilty to the charge in March 2024.

U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Boise Police Department, and the Boise Area Narcotics and Drug Interdiction Team for their roles in leading to these charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Blackadar prosecuted the case.