WICHITA — Two separate Ellis County incidents have resulted in federal charges.

According to the office of U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom, Leo Jimenez, 25, Adelanto, Calif., and Monica Sarenana, 25, Chino Hills, Calif., have been charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute approximately 5 kilograms of methamphetamine, and one count each of traveling from California to Kansas in furtherance of drug trafficking.

The crimes are alleged to have occurred Nov. 6 in Ellis County.

Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following penalties:
• Conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute: Not less than 10 years and a fine up to $4 million.
• Interstate travel in furtherance of drug trafficking: A maximum penalty of five years and a fine up to $250,000.

The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Jacobs is prosecuting.

In a separate incident, Brandon Thomas Finnesy, 25, Plainville, was charged this week with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm following a felony conviction. The crime is alleged to have occurred July 7 in Ellis County.

If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years and a fine up to $250,000. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Treaster is prosecuting.