Hogsett Announces Indictment Of Suspected Warrick County Methamphetamine Dealer

BOONVILLE – Joseph H. Hogsett, United States Attorney, announced the indictment of a Warrick County man for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Matthew Collins, 51, was indicted by a grand jury yesterday.

“Methamphetamine is a harmful drug,” said Hogsett. “Getting it off the streets and putting dealers behind bars is the best way to prevent drug-related violence in our Hoosier communities.”

Since March of this year, DEA officials have been assisting the Warrick Country Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) criminal investigations narcotic division in an investigation involving Collins. Collins is suspected of distributing pound quantities of methamphetamine in the Warrick County area.

Law enforcement began tracking Collins for his alleged drug distribution and on June 8, 2014, stopped Collins for speeding on SR 161 just inside in Indiana border in Spencer County. Deputies from the Warrick County Sheriff’s Department used their K-9 partner to determine the presence of methamphetamine in Collins’ vehicle. Field tests allegedly revealed nearly 15 ounces of crystal methamphetamine.

“Credit should go where it is due. Collaboration between federal and local levels of law enforcement helps our office do our job and take those harming Hoosiers off the streets,” said Hogsett.

Collins remains in custody at the Spencer County Jail.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Wheatley who is prosecuting this case for the government, Collins could face 10 years to life and a $5 million fine if convicted.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.