PORT HURON COUPLE CONVICTED ON FEDERAL FIREARMS AND NARCOTICS CHARGES

Victor Carlos Castano, 34, of Warren and Melissa Sue Gordon, 26, Port Huron, were found guilty in connection with drug and firearms charges late Thursday, February 23, 2006, by a federal jury in Port Huron. Castano was convicted of carrying a firearm in connection with drug trafficking offenses and of being a felon in possession of a firearm, while Gordon was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 50 pounds of marijuana, United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy announced today.

Prior to the commencement of the trial, Castano had pleaded guilty to the drug charge, but contested the firearm’s charges.

Murphy was joined in the announcement by Daniel D. Roberts, Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Division, Federal Bureau of Investigation and St. Clair County Sheriff E. Dan Lane.

The jury deliberated for approximately two and one-half hours before returning the verdict, concluding a three day trial before United States District Lawrence Zatkoff.

The evidence presented at trial established that Castano, a member of the Devil’s Disciples motorcycle club, and Gordon were attempting to conclude a deal involving the sale of 50 pounds of marijuana at the Norway Bar in Avoca, Michigan, a small town outside of Port Huron. The drug deal was thwarted by the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department who received information about the planned deal and arrested the defendants. The case was adopted by the FBI in connection with their on-going investigation of criminal activities by members of the motor cycle club.

“Significant drug traffickers, particularly armed drug traffickers, represent a serious danger to our community that my office will continue to combat with all its might.” United States Attorney Murphy said.

Murphy commended the work of the agents of the FBI, as well as the St. Clair County Drug Task Force who worked together on the investigation.
A sentencing date for both defendants has been set for May 16, 2006.