A federal grand jury indicted Richard Charles Thomas Jr., 38, of Merced, charging him Thursday with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

According to court documents, on Aug. 25, 2020, Thomas led law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase through the city of Merced. While fleeing police, Thomas allegedly threw a black bag from the vehicle. Officers recovered the bag, which contained about 839 grams of methamphetamine, $3,162 in cash, and personal effects belonging to Thomas.

Thomas Faces up to 10 Years in Prison

This case resulted from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Merced Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Massey is prosecuting the case.

If convicted, Thomas faces a mandatory minimum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $10 million fine.