“Molly” Trafficking Ring Dismantled, Leader Sentenced To More Than Twelve Years In Prison

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge G. Kendall Sharp today sentenced Justin Brian Smith (28, Orlando) to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute Methylone. He pleaded guilty on July 7, 2014. Six additional members of the drug trafficking ring previously pleaded guilty and were also sentenced today for the same offense.  Dylan Tash (21, Orlando) was sentenced to seven years and four months in federal prison. Janette Leonard (34, Orlando) was sentenced to five years and three months in federal prison. Takayuki Sakairi (28, Orlando) and Nathalie Zuanetti (27, Orlando) each received a sentence of four years and nine months’ imprisonment.  Brian Marmorstone (26, Orlando) was sentenced to two years and nine months in federal prison, and Paul Stebenne (42, Oviedo) was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison.

According to court documents, in 2011, Smith began purchasing Methylone, a club drug often referred to as “Molly,” in bulk from a source in China. Smith would arrange for the drug packages to be shipped to him and to other co-conspirators, including Sakairi, Marmorstone, Zuanetti, Tash, and Leonard. Zuanetti, Tash, Leonard, and Stebenne then assisted Smith in distributing the drugs to other individuals. 

The investigation culminated with a controlled delivery of approximately 72 kilograms of Methylone to Tash on January 10, 2014. In addition, agents seized and administratively forfeited approximately $42,000 in cash from Smith’s residence. During the course of the investigation, agents seized a total of approximately 280 kilograms of Methylone that had been ordered by Smith and sent to him and his accomplices.

DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge A.D. Wright stated, “Today’s actions should be a warning call to those who peddle these dangerous drugs to make a quick buck by preying on party-goers. The DEA remains focused on keeping our citizens safe and these dangerous drugs out of our communities.”

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vincent S. Chiu.