A North Dakota man admitted his role in a multi-state drug trafficking operation that moved large amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine, according to federal court documents filed Friday, Dec. 5.
Travis James Dethlefs pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, acknowledging his involvement in a scheme handling at least 500 grams of meth and 5 kilograms of cocaine between January 2024 and the plea agreement date.
The conspiracy spanned five states: North Dakota, Minnesota, Texas, Kansas, and Missouri. Prosecutors calculated the total converted drug weight between 30,000 and 90,000 kilograms.
Court documents state the operation employed sophisticated methods to avoid detection. Conspirators used encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp, social media platforms including Facebook, and peer-to-peer payment services such as Cash App and Zelle to coordinate sales. They also sent drugs and payments through the U.S. mail, used wire transfers, and traveled between states to transport narcotics.
On Aug. 7, 2024, conspirators possessed roughly 15 kilograms of methamphetamine and 571 grams of cocaine in Lawrence, Kansas, according to the plea agreement.
Federal prosecutors say some members of the group possessed firearms and used threats of violence and intimidation to protect their criminal activities.
Dethlefs faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and up to life behind bars. He could also be fined up to $10 million and face five years to life of supervised release.
Under the plea agreement, prosecutors agreed to recommend a sentence at the low end of the applicable guideline range and a three-level reduction for acceptance of responsibility if Dethlefs continues to show genuine remorse.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew P. Kopp is prosecuting the case. Dethlefs is represented by attorney Chris Snyder. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
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