A Casper-area man, Andrew Phillip Nollen, 36, has been charged with methamphetamine distribution in federal court, according to documents filed in the Wyoming US District Court.
The charge stems from an investigation by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), which began focusing on Nollen in April 2023.
Nollen is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, which carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. His case initially involved state charges in Natrona County before being escalated to the federal level.
In June, Nollen provided two positive urinalysis tests for controlled substances, raising suspicions of his involvement in drug distribution. Further investigation revealed that he had been acquiring large quantities of controlled substances, including methamphetamine, for redistribution.
The investigation deepened in July when two individuals in Mills were arrested for fentanyl possession. Through a search warrant, DCI agents discovered communication between Nollen, referred to as “Drew,” and the suspects. One of these individuals admitted to obtaining methamphetamine from Nollen, while the other was involved in redistributing the drugs.
On July 17, law enforcement conducted a search of Nollen’s residence in Glenrock, uncovering a large amount of cash, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a cellphone linked to the investigation. The methamphetamine, later confirmed by laboratory testing, weighed over 100 grams.
Additional information from a confidential source in August corroborated that Nollen had been distributing methamphetamine in both Natrona and Converse counties. The source claimed that Nollen would travel to Colorado to purchase large quantities of the drug and sell it in Wyoming.
By September, law enforcement had received further tips indicating that Nollen was involved in selling both methamphetamine and fentanyl from a Casper motel. Subsequent investigations led to the discovery of more drugs and drug-related materials at another location.
Nollen was arrested by Mills police on September 26 and charged with multiple felonies, including third-time possession of methamphetamine and fentanyl. He was placed in the Natrona County Detention Center with a bond set at $5,000.
On October 10, federal prosecutors filed a motion to detain Nollen, citing the potential for a lengthy prison sentence, concerns about his flight risk, and the safety of the community. The investigation is ongoing, and Nollen remains in custody as his case proceeds through the federal court system.
With input from Oil City News.
