A Chicago man faces federal charges after Drug Enforcement Administration officials confiscated cocaine, firearms, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash from his Loop apartment and SUV during a 2022 surveillance operation. The newly filed criminal case does not explain why officials waited three years to charge the man.
According to the complaint, on June 8, 2022, DEA agents conducting surveillance observed David Watson leaving his downtown apartment building in the 100 block of North Garland Court and riding off in a maroon Jeep Cherokee driven by an unnamed lady. Approximately 40 minutes later, the SUV returned and parked next to Watson’s Porsche.
The allegation stated that Watson and the woman were seen lugging weighted suitcases into the building. Later that afternoon, Watson allegedly returned alone to the Jeep, placed goods into the back seat and cargo area, and drove away.
Agents stopped him shortly after, claiming he had given them permission to search the SUV. Inside, they allegedly discovered a kilogram of cocaine, approximately $85,550 in bundled cash, and 45 grams of powder cocaine on the center console.
Watson also agreed to a search of his flat, where agents discovered “several more kilograms of cocaine, multiple firearms, and $400,000 in U.S. currency,” the lawsuit stated.
Watson allegedly told authorities that he intended to send the money and cocaine to a courier linked to a Mexican source around 33rd and Damen. However, a disagreement with the source prompted him to withdraw from the agreement, according to the complaint.
He has been charged with possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
