DAYTON, Ohio – Michael Chang, 55, of Los Angeles, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to his role as a source of supply in a narcotics conspiracy punishable by at least 10 years and up to life in prison.
Chang admitted to conspiring with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The defendant was found responsible for the distribution of more than 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in late 2024 and early 2025, Chang orchestrated the delivery of bulk quantities of methamphetamine from California to customers, including in the greater Dayton area. While in Los Angeles, Chang obtained and distributed narcotics to other members of the drug trafficking organization, who then trafficked the drugs in southwest Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.
Chang is the lead defendant in this case, and three other defendants have been charged and pleaded guilty as part of the drug conspiracy. The following defendants are awaiting sentencing:Erika Garcia, 45, of Trotwood;Dennis Campbell, 41, of Hamilton; andKathryn Tucker, 47, of Bourbon County, Kentucky.
As part of this case, law enforcement officials seized two firearms and seven pieces of jewelry including diamond and gold tennis bracelets and necklaces.
Sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the Court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors at a future hearing.
Dominick S. Gerace II, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; and Joseph O. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Detroit; announced the guilty plea offered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter B. Silvain, Jr. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan A. Saunders and Assistant Deputy Criminal Chief Amy M. Smith are representing the United States in this case.# # #