A Montgomery man has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for selling counterfeit pharmaceutical pills laced with fentanyl that led to the death of another local man.
Lawrence Coley III, 37, had previously been convicted on charges of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute earlier this year. A federal judge handed down the sentence on Thursday, sentencing Coley to 240 months in prison. Since the case is federal, Coley will not be eligible for parole.
Earlier this year, Coley sold a local man pills that had the appearance and markings of pharmaceutical oxycodone tablets. Lab analysis revealed that the drugs sold to the victim were counterfeit and contained fentanyl, causing his death. During Coley’s sentencing hearing, the judge heard testimony that Coley continued to sell the counterfeit pills even after learning of the victim’s death.
“This case illustrates the tragic consequences that drug trafficking can have on our communities,” said acting U.S. Attorney Davidson. “Coley’s complete disregard for the lives of others by continuing to sell his illegal drugs after causing a man’s death is disturbing. The harsh reality is that any pill not obtained from a pharmacy or doctor’s office could contain a lethal dose of fentanyl or other deadly drug. This sentence should serve as a warning to drug dealers - if you sell a pill and it contains fentanyl, you run the risk of spending decades in federal prison with no possibility of parole.”
The Montgomery Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Division investigated the case, with assistance from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences and the Alabama Attorney General’s Office.
“The Drug Enforcement Administration is dedicated to protecting our communities from the scourge of deadly drugs plaguing our communities,” said special DEA agent in charge Steven Hofer. “Today’s conviction sends a powerful message to drug traffickers: we will not tolerate the poisoning of our neighborhoods. This victory is a testament to the tireless work of our agents and law enforcement partners and should serve as a stark reminder that there are serious consequences for those who choose profit over people.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
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