BILLINGS- A 32-year-old Billings man pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to meth trafficking and gun charges.
Chad Allen Beres faces a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of life in prison, up to a $10.25 million fine and eight years supervised release for the meth and gun charges, according to a release from U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme.
Federal prosecutors said Billings police officers arrested Beres’ co-defendant, Christopher Hurst, at a hotel Feb. 27, 2018.
Officers found meth and a firearm during a search, and Hurst admitted receiving four to eight ounces of meth daily from suppliers.
Agents identified Beres as the supplier. After obtaining a warrant, they seized about 700 grams of meth at his residence, which is the equivalent of about 5,600 doses, according to Alme. They also seized three shotguns and two handguns.
Hurst and one of his customers, Larry Barnett, both pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. A fourth co-defendant, Maurice Fregia, has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided and will recommend Beres’ plea be accepted by U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters, who is hearing the case. Beres is detained.
