A convicted felon, who was on parole and was spotted by police committing a drug deal in McHenry County, has been sentenced to over 10 years in prison.
Cameron J. Ratcliff, 40, of Harvard, was charged in March 2022 with possession of 100-400 grams of cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of 100-400 grams of cocaine, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, unlawful possession of firearm ammunition by a felon, delivery of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.
Ratcliff was observed on March 3, 2022, committing what appeared to be a narcotics transaction, according to a motion filed in court.
Ratcliff was under surveillance by the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Task Force.
The motion said officers conducted a traffic stop and found Ratcliff in possession of cocaine and approximately $1,500 cash.
A search warrant was later executed at Ratcliff’s residence where 105 grams of cocaine, which has a street value of $10,500, was located, according to the motion.
Police also found a Taurus handgun and several 9mm bullets in Ratcliff’s possession, according to a criminal complaint.
Ratcliff has numerous felony convictions for robbery, drug offenses, obstructing justice and more, court records show.
Records from the Illinois Department of Corrections show Ratcliff was released from prison on parole in January 2021.
Ratcliff has been held in the McHenry County Jail on a $200,000 bond since his arrest.
Court records show Ratcliff recently entered into a negotiated plea deal with the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.
He pleaded guilty to one count of possession of 100-400 grams of cocaine, a super Class 1 felony. The rest of his charges were dismissed.
McHenry County Judge James Cowlin approved the plea deal and sentenced Ratcliff to 10 years and six months in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Ratcliff will be required to serve 50% of the sentence in accordance with truth-in-sentencing guidelines.
He will receive 387 days of credit for time already served in jail and 148 days of credit for engaging in self-improvement programs or work assignments.