Missouri woman pleads guilty to oxycodone trafficking

MISSOULA - A Missouri woman who was part of a Chicago-based drug ring that illegally obtained oxycodone from Montana pharmacies admitted to charges today, Acting U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.

Whit'lee Laurie Amari Miller, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute oxycodone. Miller faces 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine, at least three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided at the change of plea. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen will determine a sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Miller remained out of custody on conditions pending sentencing which was set for November 12, 2026.

The government alleged in court documents that Miller, along with a group of associates, flew into Montana, visited various pharmacies across the state, and used falsified prescriptions to get oxycodone and other controlled substances. Miller and others in the group would give the oxycodone to Brandon Lavelle and Winfrey Jaylan Javier Wash, who then distributed it. Winfrey and Wash, who pleaded guilty to drug charges earlier this month, paid for expenses and directed group members which pharmacies to hit and when to enter.

The U.S. Attorney's Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and DEA conducted the investigation.

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