CONCORD, NH – Charles Winchell, 41, and Catherine Quinn, 42, both residents of Manchester, have pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the manufacturing of methamphetamine, as announced by U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. The charges include conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine with a child under the age of 18 present and possession of equipment, chemicals, and materials to manufacture methamphetamine.
U.S. District Court Judge Paul Barbadoro has scheduled sentencing for Winchell on September 16, 2024, and for Quinn on September 30, 2024.
Throughout 2023, Winchell and Quinn frequently purchased pseudoephedrine, a common over-the-counter medication and the primary ingredient for producing methamphetamine. During a search of their Manchester residence, law enforcement found pseudoephedrine and other methamphetamine manufacturing ingredients, along with approximately 6 grams of methamphetamine. The home housed twelve individuals, including three children under the age of five.
The conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Due to the presence of children, the statute allows for a consecutive sentence of up to 20 years and an additional fine of up to $1,000,000. The charge of possessing manufacturing equipment and materials could result in up to 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release.
Sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable statutes.