Richard Charles Thomas Jr., 42, of Merced, was sentenced to 15 years and eight months in prison for drug-related charge. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston issued the sentence after Thomas pleaded guilty to possessing and intending to distribute a large amount of methamphetamine. The case dates back to August 2020, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, a traffic stop involving Thomas turned into a high-speed chase through residential areas. He was reported to have driven over 100 mph, went against traffic, ran stop signs, and threw a bag from his car that was later found to contain cash and methamphetamine. Thomas left his car and tried to run away but was arrested. The Merced Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case.
Richard Charles Thomas Jr. was sentenced after authorities found nearly 2 pounds of methamphetamine with 99% purity in a bag he threw. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly A. Sanchez and Cody S. Chapple and had been ongoing for several years, as stated by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
