Stigler Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

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William Herr, a 41-year-old resident of Stigler, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to federal charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The charges stem from an incident on December 16, 2024, where Herr was found in possession of less than 50 kilograms of marijuana and a firearm.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by federal and local law enforcement to combat drug and firearm-related crimes in rural Oklahoma communities. The charges against Herr reflect the Department of Justice's focus on prosecuting individuals involved in the distribution of illegal drugs, especially when firearms are also involved.

The details

According to the Information filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Herr pleaded guilty to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, and one count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The charges stem from an investigation by the Haskell County Sheriff's Department, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

• On December 16, 2024, Herr allegedly possessed less than 50 kilograms of marijuana with intent to distribute.
• On December 16, 2024, Herr allegedly possessed a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

What’s next

A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed on Herr after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Herr has been remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.