HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC) – A Meriden man plead guilty on Tuesday in Hartford Federal Court to charges of running a cocaine and crack distribution ring while incarcerated at the Cheshire Correctional Institution.

30-year-old Westley Northrup, also known as “Piff,” was charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base.

10 others were also charged in connection with the operation.

The objective of the drug ring was to purchase cocaine, convert some of the cocaine into crack, and then distribute the drugs throughout Central Connecticut.

The suspects were arrested after an investigation was conducted by federal drug enforcement agencies. Investigation tactics included controlled drug purchases and court-authorized wiretaps.