Montgomery man convicted of drug trafficking that resulted in fentanyl death | News

A Montgomery man was convicted of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death from ingestion of fentanyl and possession of the drug with intent to distribute.

“The Drug Enforcement Administration’s top priority is to hold accountable those individuals and drug trafficking organizations that poison our communities with deadly drugs like fentanyl,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer.

“Today's conviction is a step forward in our mission to build teams that save lives and make communities safer. As we celebrate this victory, we must remember the tragic death caused by this individual's callous disregard for human life. The conviction sends a clear message: those who put profit before people will be held accountable.”

Lawrence Coley III was found guilty in a federal trial on August 15. A statement from the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama said Montgomery police were alerted to an unresponsive person in a vehicle on August 26.

When police were able to enter the vehicle, they found the person was dead but showed no signs of trauma or serious injuries. A medical examiner later determined the victim died from the effects of fentanyl.

Further testing revealed that he had four to five times the lethal dose in his bloodstream. Investigators eventually discovered that the victim had been purchasing narcotics from Coley for more than a year, including on the morning of his death.

After obtaining a search warrant, investigators entered Coley's apartment and found 70 blue pills marked “M” on one side and “30” on the other. The markings allegedly gave them the appearance of pharmaceutical oxycodone tablets. Laboratory tests revealed that the pills were counterfeit and contained fentanyl instead of oxycodone.

Coley was arrested during a traffic stop and had five fake fentanyl pills.

“Counterfeit pills containing fentanyl have become commonplace in Alabama and across the United States,” said U.S. Attorney Ross. “Everyone should assume that any pill not from a doctor or pharmacy may contain a lethal dose of fentanyl or another deadly drug. My office is committed to holding individuals who sell these dangerous pills accountable.”

Coley now faces a prison sentence of 20 years to life.