– Pekin Man Meth Charges
– Pekin Man Released on Charges.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : A Pekin resident, Benjamin J. Phillips, has been released from McLean County custody on charges related to the possession of methamphetamine. Phillips, aged 39, faces the serious accusation of unlawful possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, classified as a Class X felony.
The case against Phillips unfolded as part of an ongoing drug enforcement investigation led by the Illinois State Police Task Force Six. According to Assistant State’s Attorney David Fitt, a confidential source provided information to the police about a significant shipment of methamphetamine destined for McLean County. This information led to the identification of Phillips as a key figure in the investigation.
Fitt explained in a probable cause statement that the confidential source informed the authorities about two individuals planning to deliver 2 ounces of methamphetamine. Subsequently, Phillips was identified as one of the individuals involved in this illicit activity.
The legal proceedings took a turn when Phillips was stopped by Normal police while driving a gray Jeep Wrangler with an obscured license plate. He was initially detained for driving with a revoked license but was later released. However, his encounters with law enforcement did not end there. Bloomington police stopped Phillips the following day for driving with a suspended license and committing traffic violations, leading to a search of his vehicle.
During the search, officers discovered a substantial quantity of methamphetamine concealed inside a clothing hamper in the back of Phillips’ car. Fitt highlighted that Phillips admitted to his involvement in methamphetamine-related activities with another individual. Phillips disclosed that he had been offered $50 to transport the other individual to a drug deal where the narcotics were intended to be sold.
Phillips’ legal history reveals multiple felony convictions resulting in prison sentences and probation violations. However, his defense attorney, ViVi Phan, argued that Phillips has not committed any offenses since 2017. Phan emphasized that Phillips is actively working on his sobriety and resides in a sober living environment. Additionally, Phan pointed out that Phillips holds a full-time job and cooperated with law enforcement without resistance during his recent encounters.
During the court proceedings, Assistant Public Defender Phan advocated for pretrial monitoring instead of detention for Phillips. The presiding judge, however, ordered Phillips to be released under statutory conditions and placed under pretrial supervision, expressing hope that Phillips is genuinely committed to maintaining sobriety.
Phillips’ arraignment is scheduled for June 28, marking the next step in his legal journey. The case underscores the ongoing battle against drug-related crimes in the region and the importance of rehabilitation and support for individuals struggling with addiction..
1. Pekin Man Released on Meth Charges
2. Man Released on Meth Charges Pekin.
