United States Drug Enforcement Administration

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Ray Donovan, New York Division announced today that Savon Barnes, 28, of Buffalo, NY, was arrested and charged by complaint with possessing with intent to distribute, and distributing, fentanyl, possessing with intent to distribute heroin, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, and a maximum of life.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in July 2020, the DEA and the New York State Police Violent Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team began an investigation into the narcotics trafficking activities of the defendant. Between September 3 and October 2, 2020, investigators conducted eight controlled purchases of suspected fentanyl from Barnes. On October 13, 2020, a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s Efner Street residence. Investigators recovered a 12-gauge shotgun and ammunition, approximately 462 grams of suspected heroin, and approximately 17 grams of suspected fentanyl.

The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and was released on conditions.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the DEA Buffalo Resident Office, New York Division; the New York State Police Violent Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team; and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.