Gillette man found guilty of trafficking methamphetamine from Colorado

Wade Schear, 41, of Gillette, Wyoming, was convicted by a federal jury on April 30 for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. The trial lasted nearly three days and was held before U.S. District Court Judge Kelly H Rankin.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Central Enforcement Team began an investigation into the possession, transportation, and distribution of controlled substances in Natrona County. During the investigation, Schear was identified as a person of interest. On June 22, 2024, the Platte County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop near Chugwater on a VW Bug driven by Schear. Deputies searched the vehicle after a K9 alerted to the presence of controlled substances. Deputies located approximately two pounds of methamphetamine hidden in a backpack that also contained multiple cell phones, over $800 in cash and Schear's personal belongings. Trial evidence indicated Schear traveled several times from Wyoming to Colorado to obtain large quantities of methamphetamine for distribution in Wyoming.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 17. Schear faces a minimum of 10 years up to life imprisonment, followed by at least five years to life of supervised release, a $10 million fine, and a $100 special assessment.

The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Central Enforcement Team and the Platte County Sheriff's Office investigated the crime. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mackenzie R. Morrison and Eric Heimann prosecuted the case.

Case No. 24-CR-00136