Four Portland residents charged with federal drug crimes

People can buy just about anything on the Internet these days -- including illegal drugs. Many people may not realize that these transactions are possible, however, federal authorities do monitor the web for illegal drug transactions. One online investigation has led to the arrest of four Portland, Oregon residents.

According to federal authorities, the four were involved in selling methamphetamine online. The group would use a site known for hosting a black market to sell meth to customers around the United States and around the world. In exchange, authorities say, the group would receive Bitcoin -- a form of digital currency that can be exchanged for cash by certain retailers. In order to secure their identities, federal agents claim that the group used aliases, fake addresses, masked IP addresses and other undercover measures.

Between August 2012 and August 2013, the group is accused of selling more than 17 pounds of methamphetamine -- including 17.5 grams to undercover federal agents. According to authorities, the group netted over $600,000 in almost 3,200 transactions.

As a result of their arrest, the four individuals face a variety of federal drug charges including conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine via the Internet, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to export a controlled substance. The group also faces charges for money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering. They have pleaded not guilty.

Federal drug charges are even more severe, in many cases, then Oregon state drug charges. Those facing federal crimes may be subject to severe sentencing guidelines which could affect them for the rest of their lives. However, just like in Oregon state courts, those facing drug charges in federal court have the right to present an aggressive criminal defense to prove their innocence or to try and reduce the charges.

Source: The Oregonian, "4 from Portland area linked to online meth ring, indicted on federal charges," Everton Bailey Jr., Dec. 18, 2013