Wed, Apr 20, 2016
Both Accused In Case Of Operating An Unregistered Aircraft
Two men charged in a case involving drugs, cash, and an airplane have pleaded guilty in federal court in Wyoming.
The Associated Press reports that last week, Michael Lewis of Englewood, CO pleaded guilty to a charge of operating an unregistered airplane. He and Gilbert Wayne Wiles of Denver had been arrested and charged after a drug-sniffing dog had alerted near their airplane on the ramp at Yellowstone Regional Airport in February 2014. While no drugs were found in the plane, the dog's actions indicated that it had been used to transport drugs in the past, according to testimony from a police officer. Lewis and Wiles were arrested in a hotel room with some $250,000 cash.
Lewis pleaded guilty last week to charges of operating an unregistered aircraft, and faces up to three years in prison. However, District Judge Alan B. Johnson said that it may be a case that for which an a probationary sentence would be appropriate. The Billings Gazette reports that Wiles pleaded guilty Friday to a charge of aiding and abetting the operation of an unregistered aircraft.
Prosecutors are continuing to pursue a civil case to force the forfeiture of the cash and the Cessna, which Lewis purchased for $130,000, saying they were involved in the illegal drug trade despite not having filed any drug charges.
Lewis has filed claims in civil court asserting ownership of both the airplane and the cash, but as part of his plea agreement, he has forfeited any interest in the Cessna.
Lewis reportedly told federal prosecutor Thomas Scott in court that he "did not know" the plane was supposed to be registered.
More News
Say Altitude Used by ATC to ascertain an aircraft's specific altitude/flight level. When the aircraft is climbing or descending, the pilot should state the indicated altitude round>[...]
Aero Linx: European Air Law Association (EALA) EALA was established in 1988 with the aim to promote the study of European air law and to provide an open forum for those with an int>[...]
From 2023 (YouTube Version): The Life, Death, Life, Death, and Life of a Glorious Warbird In 1981, business-owner Jim Tobul and his father purchased a Chance-Vought F4U Corsair. Mo>[...]
Also: USCG Retires MH-65 Dolphins, Irish Aviation Authority, NATCA Warns FAA, Diamond DA42 AD This summer, history enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience World Wa>[...]
Also: WACO Kitchen Bails, French SportPlane Mfr to FL, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Innovation Preview Bobby Bailey, a bit of a fixture in sport aviation circles for his work with>[...]