Polk County (trfnews.i234.me) In a startling development, 54-year-old Crookston resident Abelardo Deleon has entered Alford pleas to three felony methamphetamine charges, acknowledging the weight of evidence against him while maintaining his innocence. Despite the severity of the charges—including conspiracy to commit a first-degree controlled substance crime and sales within prohibited zones—Deleon has been granted a furlough, allowing him to remain out of custody until his sentencing.
The case, stemming from a years-long investigation, revealed that multiple individuals purchased methamphetamine from Deleon. Controlled buys involving law enforcement and informants further implicated him and his brother, Juan Gallegos Deleon Jr., who faces 14 charges and maintains not guilty pleas. Notably, both brothers were also charged with conspiracy to commit first-degree premeditated murder, with court documents indicating plans to harm or kill multiple individuals. If the plea agreement is accepted, these additional charges against Abelardo Deleon will be dismissed.
The plea agreement recommends a 98-month sentence (just over eight years). Sentencing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 22 but may be moved up if Deleon cannot secure housing during his furlough. While out, he remains under pre-trial supervision.
Did you know?
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An Alford plea allows a defendant to maintain innocence while acknowledging sufficient evidence for a likely conviction.
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Furloughs in such serious cases are rare and often contingent on strict supervision conditions.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News