The final member of a sprawling machinegun and drug trafficking ring operating in Benton Harbor has been sentenced to 108 months in federal prison, marking the end of a major investigation that dismantled a significant criminal network.
Earl Austin IV, 22, was convicted for his role in trafficking methamphetamine, guns, and machinegun switches. He is the last of 17 defendants across three separate indictments to be sentenced in this case.
U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “The families of Benton Harbor deserve to carry out their lives without the fear of violence. Safety is a civil right. These cases represent our commitment to making that right a reality. While we can never prosecute our way out of the gun violence epidemic, accountability for those few individuals who are driving violence is critical.”
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The investigation, which spanned several months, resulted in the seizure of over one pound of methamphetamine, five firearms, and three machinegun switches. Undercover officers made numerous controlled purchases of illegal drugs and firearms from the defendants, culminating in the execution of search warrants and the arrest of all individuals involved.
The sentences handed down to the 17 defendants vary in length, reflecting their individual roles and levels of involvement in the criminal enterprise. Some co-defendants, like Robert Griffin and Rhonda Acklin, received sentences of 70 and 41 months respectively for selling methamphetamine. Evorion Anderson was sentenced to 70 months for selling both methamphetamine and machinegun switches.
This successful prosecution serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, and the Southwest Enforcement Team (SWET). Their dedication and tireless work have effectively dismantled a dangerous criminal organization and made the community of Benton Harbor safer.
As this chapter closes, the focus shifts towards continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent the reemergence of such criminal activities in the future. The successful outcome of this investigation serves as a stark warning to those who engage in illegal activities, reaffirming the commitment of law enforcement to protect the community and uphold the law.
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