Charles Barker from Niagara Falls Indicted on Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

A Niagara Falls resident is facing federal charges after being accused of conspiring to traffic methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm.

On Tuesday, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York announced that a grand jury indicted 70-year-old Charles Barker on multiple counts. The charges include narcotics conspiracy, attempted possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute the same amount, and being a felon in possession of both a firearm and ammunition.

The indictment carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to life imprisonment, and a fine that could reach $10 million if Barker is convicted.

Federal officials allege that between June 11th and June 17th, Barker worked with others to obtain large quantities of methamphetamine delivered to his home in Niagara Falls. Prosecutors further accuse him of distributing the drugs from his residence.

According to investigators, a search warrant executed on June 17th by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service led to the discovery of “large amounts of methamphetamine, along with drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash.”

Authorities also reported seizing a shotgun and ammunition.

Court records show that Barker was convicted of a felony in Niagara County Court in April 2012 making it unlawful for him to possess firearms or ammunition.

Barker appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah McCarthy on Tuesday where he pleaded not guilty. McCarthy released him under home confinement while the case moves forward.

Charles Barker from Niagara Falls Man Indicted on Federal Drug and Firearm Charges