News and Press Releases
Minneapolis man indicted for conspiring to distribute cocaine
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS—Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 35-year-old Minneapolis man
was indicted for conspiring to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. Jose Guillen was
specifically charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, four counts of
distribution of cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
The indictment alleges that from April of 2011 through October 20, 2011, Guillen conspired
with others to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine. In addition, Guillen allegedly
distributed cocaine on August 26 and 29, 2011, and September 13 and 27, 2011. And, on
October 20, 2011, Guillen allegedly possessed with intent to distribute approximately nine
ounces of cocaine.
According to a law enforcement affidavit filed in the case, authorities conducted an
arranged controlled purchase of cocaine from Guillen in September of 2011. Then, on October
19, authorities executed a search warrant at Guillen’s residence and his place of employment as
well as on his vehicle. Officers allegedly found approximately 285.10 grams of cocaine inside
the bottom drawer of a tool chest belonging to Guillen. Authorities also allegedly seized a
digital scale and suspected drug packaging in his residence as well as drug paraphernalia in his
garage. Guillen was arrested at his place of employment without incident.
If convicted, Guillen faces a potential maximum penalty of life in prison on the conspiracy
count and 20 years on each additional count. All sentences will be determined by a federal
district court judge. This case is the result of an investigation by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the Bloomington Police Department and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey S. Paulsen.
An indictment is a determination by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe that offenses have been committed by a defendant. A defendant, of course, is presumed innocent until he or she pleads guilty or is proven guilty at trial.
