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Alleged meth supplier agrees to testify vs co-defendant
Xing Bo Fang, a man tagged by authorities as the leader of a group of meth suppliers on Saipan, is cooperating with the U.S. government and is willing to testify against the alleged second-in-command of a group of “ice” distributors.
David G. Banes, as counsel for Fang, and assistant U.S. attorney Ross Naughton disclosed that as part of Fang’s cooperation with the U.S. government he has agreed to testify against co-defendant Yu Hua Wang.
Banes and Naughton said Wang’s trial has been taken off calendar due to the ongoing evaluation of his competency to stand trial.
It may take up to 60 days to complete Wang’s evaluation, said Banes and Naughton in a joint motion to continue Fang’s sentencing.
Fang has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine as part of a plea deal.
The offense carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, a $10 million fine, and a $100 special assessment fee.
Fang’s sentencing was originally set for July 11, 2014. His sentencing is presently set for Dec. 2, 2014.
Banes and Naughton said until Fang either testifies at trial, or Wang pleads guilty or is found incompetent, the U.S. government cannot properly evaluate the level of Fang’s cooperation, including an evaluation of if Fang qualifies for “substantial assistance” to the government.
Last June, as a result of Fang’s guilty plea, the federal court ordered the forfeiture of $8,500 in cash that was seized from him.
According to the factual basis of the plea agreement, on Dec. 27, 2013, Fang sold 98.7 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride to a Drug Enforcement Administration confidential source at the instruction of Wang.
Fang and Wang were among seven persons arrested in February by joint local and federal law enforcements for “ice” distribution.
