BUFFALO — A Niagara Falls man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on drug and gun charges.
Prosecutors with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York announced Tuesday that a grand jury had charged Charles Barker, 70, of the Falls, with narcotics conspiracy, attempt to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life, along with a $10 million fine.
Federal prosecutors said that between June 11 and 17, Barker conspired with others to receive large amounts of methamphetamine at his Falls home. He is also accused of selling methamphetamine from his residence.
Agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service executed a search warrant at Barker’s home on June 17 and seized what was described as “large amounts of methamphetamine, along with drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash.” Investigators also said that Barker was in possession of a shotgun and ammunition at the time his home was searched.
In April 2012, Barker was convicted of a felony in Niagara County Court and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.
Barker pleaded not guilty during an arraignment on Tuesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy. McCarthy released him from custody on home confinement.