SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A 38-year-old Springfield man is going to spend the next 17 years in prison for distribution of methamphetamine.

Jessie Bates was sentenced on July 17 to 17 years in prison, to be followed by a five-year term of supervised released for the meth charge. At a sentencing hearing, the government presented evidence that Bates sold over 50 grams of meth to an individual and uncover agent.

When law enforcement tried to arrest Bates, he fled at a high rate of speed, proceeding the wrong way down a busy one-way road. He then fled to the state of Georgia where he was ultimately arrested.

The government also presented evidence that Bates committed the offense while out on bond for a Sangamon County case involving aggravated discharge of a firearm.

At the hearing, U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless found that Bates was a career offender and eligible for an obstruction of justice enhancement for recklessly creating substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury to another person in the course of fleeing from law enforcement.

“The only thing to be gained from a career as a drug dealer is a prison sentence,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Seberger. “I appreciate the work of the ATF agents who came to Central Illinois and went into the field to ensure this was a successful operation. Their work has made our community safer.”

Bates initially pleaded guilty in March 2025 and remains in the custody of the United States Marshals Service, where he has been since his arrest in January 2024.

Additionally, the statutory penalties for distribution of meth are at least 10 years and up to a life term of imprisonment, at least five years and up to a life term of supervised release and up to a $10 million fine.

“This case was a direct result of our Violent Crime Initiative and our strong partnership with the Springfield Police Department,” said ATF Chicago Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon. “Through our targeted and collaborative enforcement efforts, and with the unwavering support of retired Chief of Police Ken Scarlette, a violent drug trafficker is now off the streets and behind bars.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated this case with help from the Springfield Police Department, Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. The Illinois State Police provided assistance at the sentencing and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Seberger represented the government in the prosecution.