Chicago Man Convicted in Waterloo Heroin Ring

By Trish Mehaffey, Reporter

Tools

By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Aug 30, 2012 at 1:56 PM CDT

Story Updated: Aug 30, 2012 at 6:32 PM CDT

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - A Chicago man who distributed heroin was found guilty Wednesday after a two-day trial in federal court.

Dion Thomas, 35, of Chicago, Ill., was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and one count of heroin distribution. The jury deliberated about two hours.

According to evidence at trial, Thomas was part of a large-scale heroin distribution ring operating in Waterloo between 2009 and 2012. Thomas transported heroin from Chicago to Waterloo for distribution in Waterloo by others working for him. He also distributed large quantities of crack cocaine through the same network of distributors.

Thomas faces 10 years to life and an $8 million fine on the conspiracy charge and up to 30 years and a $2 million fine on the distribution charge. Sentencing hasn't been set at this time.