Local man sentenced in drug conspiracy

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Shonn “Big Shonn” Jackson,  38, of Rochester, has been sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge David G. Larimer to 180 months in prison.

Jackson was convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas E. Gregory said Jackson was involved in a high level drug trafficking ring that brought several million dollars worth of cocaine to the Rochester area from Arizona, California and Texas. In 2008, state and federal law enforcement officers used a wiretap to obtain evidence that led to the dismantling of the criminal organization.

The evidence seized included 14 kilograms of cocaine, approximately $50,000 cash and several firearms. The investigation ultimately led to the arrest of nine individuals, all of whom have pled guilty.