13 Convicted In Drug Trafficking Ring

Thirteen people involved in a drug trafficking ring that stemmed throughout the state have been convicted.

The sentences range from two to 27 years.

In total, 40 people were charged in the case that included the sale and purchase of methamphetamine, heroin, PCP and LSD in Indianapolis, Lafayette, Noblesville and New Castle.

U.S. Attorney Joe Hogsett says the operation was run by inmates using smuggled cell phones.

"Any form of contraband - if it makes it inside to the prison population - is a form of power," he said.  "Prison officials need to take whatever measures are necessary to keep that kind of contraband out of the prison population."

The rest of those charged will go to trial November 19.  One is a correctional officer.

This is the third investigation launched by the U.S. Attorney’s Office involving inmates conducting illegal activity using cell phones in the past three years.

"The point that we are making today is that the United States Attorney's Office in cooperation with the Department of Corrections and the Federal Bureau of Investigation is trying to stay ahead of the curve," said Hogsett.  "We are prosecuting vigorously anyone and everyone involved in this kind of activity."