A former veteran Chicago narcotics officer was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for using his badge to help a violent crew of drug dealers kidnap and rob rivals of large amounts of cocaine and millions in cash.
Glenn Lewellen, 57, closed his eyes tightly and held his hands in front of his chin with the palms together in prayer as U.S. District Judge Joan Gottschall announced the sentence. Moments later, as he was being led from the courtroom by deputy marshals, he turned and gave a thumbs-up to family members who packed the courtroom gallery.
Lewellen faced up to life in prison after a jury convicted him last year of federal drug conspiracy. Prosecutors had asked the judge for a sentence of at least 30 years in prison, while Lewellen's attorney sought the minimum 10-year term.
Prosecutors said Lewellen conspired with drug dealer Saul Rodriguez, a paid confidential informant for Lewellen, in eight robberies and kidnappings between 1998 and 2006.
In all, Lewellen helped steal more than 250 kilograms of cocaine and about $3 million in cash, prosecutors said.
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