Missouri – A 40-year-old man from Chicago has admitted in federal court that he transported a large quantity of methamphetamine through Kansas City while carrying a firearm, bringing an end to a case that began with a routine train check.
Larry L. Radcliffe entered guilty pleas to two federal charges: possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The admissions were made before a federal judge as part of a plea agreement outlining his role in moving the drugs across state lines.
According to the Department of Justice, The investigation traces back to September 30, 2024, when members of a regional narcotics task force were working at a Kansas City train station. Officers were conducting consensual encounters with passengers aboard a train that had originated in Los Angeles. During one of those interactions, Radcliffe abruptly stood up from his seat and loudly questioned what was happening, drawing the attention of nearby officers.
Concerned by his reaction, a detective approached Radcliffe, identified himself, and asked to speak with him away from the other passengers. Radcliffe said he was traveling from Los Angeles to Chicago and claimed he did not have identification. Officers noticed several bags in the overhead storage area and asked if they belonged to him. Radcliffe acknowledged ownership of two bags but hesitated when asked about a gray backpack.
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After giving consent for officers to check the backpack for safety reasons, investigators discovered multiple bundles wrapped in clear cellophane. Laboratory testing later confirmed the packages contained approximately 4.33 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. A further search of Radcliffe’s other luggage uncovered a .357-caliber revolver.
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As part of his plea, Radcliffe admitted he knowingly possessed the drugs and was transporting them to someone he understood would distribute them. He also acknowledged carrying the firearm to protect both himself and the narcotics during the trip.
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Radcliffe now faces the possibility of a lengthy federal prison sentence. While the charges carry a potential maximum of life in prison without parole, the final sentence will be determined by the court after a presentence investigation and review of federal sentencing guidelines.
