A widespread methamphetamine trafficking ring operating out of Great Falls has been dealt another major blow. Four more defendants were sentenced to federal prison last week, marking the latest chapter in a massive multi-agency drug bust.
The sentencing’s are the latest fallout from a 2024 investigation into a drug ring run by Dan and Mike Wakeford and Melissa Barone. That investigation netted over 100 pounds of meth and an illegal firearm from an Arizona storage unit. The ringleaders are already serving nearly 20 years each.
This week, Chief United States District Judge Brian Morris sentenced four associates. Jonathan Henderson received nearly eight years. Levi Dabler and Stephanie Hurd each received over three and a half years, and Patrick Wright was sentenced to two and a half years.
Federal officials say the group targeted tribal communities. FBI Special Agent in Charge Justin Gerken emphasized that the operation put lives at risk and fueled violence.
