Merrick B. Garland, Attorney General | https://www.justice.gov/
Merrick B. Garland, Attorney General | https://www.justice.gov/
A Vandalia woman has been sentenced to a decade in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Melissa P. Workman, 52, admitted her guilt in a federal court, resulting in a significant sentence.
U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft commented on the sentencing: “This 10-year sentence sends a strong message that federal law enforcement is combating drug crimes all over the district.” He further noted the impact of methamphetamine on families and expressed satisfaction with the outcome for Fayette County, acknowledging the efforts of FBI agents involved in the case.
Court documents revealed that Workman sold 10 grams of meth to an FBI confidential source on July 17, 2023. The following day, authorities executed a search warrant at her residence, uncovering methamphetamine along with drug paraphernalia such as a digital scale and packaging supplies.
FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson stated: “Drugs have deadly consequences, and the FBI will aggressively investigate the sale and trafficking of illegal drugs to make our communities safer places to live.” He emphasized that this sentence highlights the repercussions of distributing illegal substances and ensures public safety by preventing further harm from Workman.
Further investigations led agents back to Workman's home on January 8, 2024, where they discovered additional quantities of methamphetamine. Following her indictment on April 18, 2024, she was arrested under an issued warrant during which more meth was found at her residence.
The investigation was spearheaded by the FBI Springfield Field Office with Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Carraway handling prosecution duties.
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