32-year-old Caldwell man sent to federal prison for 10 years for dealing meth

Shawn Lynn Gordon will spend the next decade in a federal prison for selling methamphetamine in Canyon County last year. The 32-year-old Gordon, who federal prosecutors is an associate of the Northside (“Norteno”) street gang, pleaded guilty in January to a charge of distribution of methamphetamine. Federal prosecutors say Gordon admitted to selling 48 grams of meth over a two week period, beginning in late April 2011. Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill sentenced Gordon to a 121 month prison term Wednesday. Once released from prison, Gordon will be placed on federal probation for another five years. Gordon is one of 11 documented Norteno gang members or associates indicted by a federal grand jury last fall on drug trafficking and firearms charges. Gordon and seven others arrested in connection with the case have entered guilty pleas. Gordon is the first one in that group to be sentenced. Three others are awaiting jury trials in federal court. “This 10 year sentence underscores that violent street gang members who engage in drug trafficking will receive swift and sure punishment,” said Wendy Olson, the U.S. Attorney for Idaho. “Taxpayers can be assured that its federal, state and local law enforcement agencies will work together to combat gang crime.” The case was investigated by the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force.