In January 2021, U.S. Postal inspectors observed suspicious activity associated with a package. An investigation commenced, producing information to obtain a warrant. A package placed into the postal stream on Jan. 5, 2021, was intercepted. A warrant to open the package revealed more than 200 grams of methamphetamine.

In conjunction with U.S. Postal inspectors, Oregon State Police drug enforcement detectives arranged a controlled delivery to recipients on South Buena Vista in Burns. Thomas Moore was observed driving a female co-defendant to the post office. The female exited the post office with the suspect package. A stop was initiated by detectives.

Initially, Moore denied knowledge of the female co-defendant’s activities. The female initially denied knowledge of what the package contained. Moore subsequently admitted knowing methamphetamine was being sold. During the investigation, another individual arrived at the South Buena Vista residence to purchase methamphetamine and stated, when the female was not present, Moore would effectuate the sale of methamphetamine. This individual was also charged. A search of the South Buena Vista residence revealed further evidence of delivery to include: cash, packaging materials, and ledgers.

District Attorney Ryan Hughes prosecuted the case, and a Harney County Grand Jury indicted Moore on delivery of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of methamphetamine.

Moore plead guilty to the top charge, unlawful delivery of methamphetamine. He was initially sentenced to 30 days in jail and 36 months of formal probation. The Harney County District Attorney’s office filed a show cause to revoke Moore’s probation for non-compliance. Probation was revoked, and per Oregon Sentencing Guidelines, Moore was sentenced to 22 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections to be followed by 36 months of post-prison supervision.