KOKOMO, Ind. — The leader of a drug trafficking organization in Kokomo will spend 42 years in federal prison.
Reggie Balentine, 43, plead guilty in October 2019 to: conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances, distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, conspiracy to use interstate commerce in the commission of murder-for-hire, felon in possession of a firearm, attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Accomplice Perry O. Jones, 45, was sentenced to more than 20 years. He plead guilty to the following charges: conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute controlled substances, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm as a previously convicted felon.
Fifteen people, mostly from Kokomo, were arrested during a crackdown operation in 2018.
Operation Law and Order confiscated over 17 pounds of methamphetamine, over two pounds of cocaine, two ounces of heroin, 122 grams of fentanyl, six ounces of marijuana, two money counters, 12 vehicles, $37,000 and 24 guns. No shots were fired, and no one was injured in the raids.
