Dimitrous Jefferson, 27, of St. Croix, pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute, U.S. Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
According to Sharpe, Jefferson and co-defendant Ray Harris, were employees of Worldwide Flight Services at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix. As they entered the Transportation and Security Administration’s screening area on May 4, 2016, Jefferson triggered the metal detector. A search of his person revealed a brick-like package wrapped with gray duct tape and strapped to his leg. Harris had a similar package strapped to his leg.
Both packages tested positive for cocaine. The total weight of the packages was approximately 992 grams, or a little more than two pounds. Jefferson told law enforcement officers he was assisting Harris, who pleaded guilty on Feb. 17.
Jefferson faces as much as 20 years of incarceration for the offense and a fine of as much as $1 million. A sentencing date was set for June 28. Co-defendant Harris’ sentencing is scheduled for June 22.
The case was investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams- Henry.
