RICO conviction overturned against former Jackson County deputy accused of planting drugs during traffic stops in 2019

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – A racketeering conviction was overturned Wednesday for a former Jackson County deputy who was convicted of drug charges during traffic stops in 2021.

Former deputy Zachary Wester was sentenced to 12 years, six months and eight days in prison in July 2021 following his arrest in 2019. He was accused of planting meth on unsuspecting drivers during a dozen traffic stops.

Court papers filed Wednesday show the 1st District Court of Appeals overturned his RICO conviction, writing that the RICO law does not apply to Wester.

Specifically, the court filing states: “Because the RICO Act does not apply to a person who is affiliated with or employed by an entity but acts solely using that entity in the commission of prohibited criminal activity, we are compelled, Wester's to vacate.” Conviction for racketeering because the trial court committed reversible error in denying his motion for JOA listed below. Accordingly, the case is remanded for resentencing. The convictions in the remaining cases not involving extortion are confirmed.”

Wester's 2021 sentencing came after he was convicted of multiple charges, including racketeering, official misconduct, perjury, false imprisonment, tampering with evidence, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

To stay up to date with the latest news, follow WCTV on Facebook And X (Twitter).

Do you have a news tip or see an error that needs to be corrected? Write to us here. Please include the title of the article in your message.

Stay up to date on top headlines on the WCTV News app. Click Here to download it now.

Copyright 2024 WCTV. All rights reserved.