PEORIA, Ill. – A Peoria Heights woman is going to prison for more than 11 years, after admitting to distribute what federal prosecutors call “highly pure” methamphetamine.
The U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois says Nicole Sutton, 40, could have received as much as 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.
But, a federal judge instead opted for a 136 month term, followed by four years of parole.
Prosecutors said Sutton was arrested in September of 2020, having allegedly distributed 1,300 grams of meth in the area. She also admitted to police that the most meth she had bought at one time from a dealer was three pounds.
A federal judge, prosecutors said, noted an extensive criminal history on Sutton, including several failed attempts at drug treatment.
“The message is clear: if you choose to deal highly-addictive, community-wrecking drugs to others, you will be held accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Douglas J. Quivey, in a news release. “Our office commends the Drug Enforcement Administration’s dedication and perseverance in working with Peoria Multi-County Narcotics Enforcement Group and the Pekin Police Department to target drug dealers in the greater Peoria area.”
