The client, a Somali, was charged in an international Khat importation and distribution conspiracy. After a 5 week trial, which includes 1 week of jury deliberations, in the Southern District of New York before the Honorable Denise Cote, the client was found NOT GUILTY on all charges. The case stemmed from the federal government's indictment of over 40 African men, who were alleged to play various roles in a conspiracy to import and distribute the plant Khat into the United States. The massive takedown was known as "Operation Somali Express," in which the government alleged to have seized over 25 tons of Khat at a value of over 25 million dollars. Some of the defendants, including Sullivan & Brill's client, were also charged with laundering the proceeds to various countries throughout the world. Please read the following link highlighting the media coverage of this case.