Alabama Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Fentanyl Pills that Resulted in Another Man’s Death
Montgomery, Ala. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson and DEA New Orleans Division Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer announced the sentencing of a Montgomery, Alabama man previously convicted on charges of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute the illegal drug. On November 14, 2024, a federal judge ordered that 37-year-old Lawrence Coley, III, serve 240 months in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records and evidence presented during Coley’s trial earlier this year, Coley sold a Montgomery man pills that had the appearance and markings of pharmaceutical oxycodone tablets. Lab analysis revealed that the pills sold to the victim were counterfeit and actually 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 Drug Enforcement Administration is dedicated to protecting our communities from the scourge of deadly drugs plaguing our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge 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.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, with assistance from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences and the Alabama Attorney General’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates and Christopher P. Moore prosecuted the case.
