(TYLER, TX) United States Attorney John L. Ratcliffe announced today that a 28-year-old Gregg County man has pleaded guilty to federal drug violations in the Eastern District of Texas.

JASON RAY MCCAIN pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine today before United States Magistrate Judge John D. Love. McCain also agreed to the forfeiture of a firearm in today's plea hearing.

According to information presented in court, an investigation began in January 2003 into the distribution of methamphetamine in East Texas. The operation has resulted in numerous undercover purchases and seizures of both drugs and guns. An indictment was returned by a federal grand jury on February 6, 2007 charging 16 individuals, including McCain.

McCain faces up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $4 million at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.

This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Gregg County District Attorney's Office, the Longview Police Department and the Gregg County CODE Unit. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard L. Moore.