Canadian pot smugglers: We’re guilty

Two Canadian men who smuggled marijuana into Ferry County last fall pleaded guilty to three federal drug charges today.

William Richard Paterson, 50, and Jahrum David Oakes, 32, both of Kelowna B.C, pleaded guilty to three counts of possession with intent to distribute 50 kilograms or more of marijuana. Each charge carries a maximum of 20 years in prison and a minimum of three. No plea deals were made.

Drug Enforcement Administration agents in Spokane drove to Ferry County Nov. 1 after a tip that drug smugglers were near a home at Fourth of July Creek Road in Danville, adjacent to the border, according to court documents.

Paterson and Oakes were arrested trying to smuggle in eight duffel bags filled with marijuana, weighing about 235 pounds. The men will be sentenced April 22.

Past coverage:

Men arrested after DEA  finds pot near border

Pot suspects get new attorneys