Anthony Barth, Fentanyl Distribution, New Hampshire 2024

CONCORD, N.H. – Anthony Barth, 25, of Derry, New Hampshire, is staring down a lengthy prison sentence after admitting to flooding the streets with fentanyl. Barth pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to two counts of distributing the deadly opioid and one count of possessing with intent to distribute a staggering 400 or more grams of the substance.

The case, built on testimony delivered in court, reveals a pattern of brazen dealing. In July and August of 2016, Barth twice sold fentanyl to a confidential informant. The operation culminated on August 17th, 2016, when the informant placed an order for 50 “fingers” – roughly 500 grams – of the potent drug. Barth arrived at the pre-arranged Derry meeting point, but the deal quickly turned into a chaotic flight from justice.

As officers moved to arrest him, Barth attempted to flee in his vehicle, slamming into a police cruiser in the process. He abandoned the car near a local business and bolted into a wooded area, desperately trying to ditch the evidence. He wasn’t successful. A thorough search of the woods uncovered approximately 490 grams of fentanyl, later confirmed by lab results. Barth’s attempt to evade capture was a clear indication of his awareness of the severity of his crimes.

“The United States Attorney’s Office is dedicated to working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to arrest and prosecute individuals who are distributing deadly drugs like fentanyl,” stated Acting United States Attorney John J. Farley. “While the law enforcement community recognizes that those who suffer from addiction require treatment, those who profit from the sale of these deadly products are damaging the fabric of our communities. This case is another example of our continuing efforts to stop the distribution of illegal opioids into our state.”

DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson underscored the crisis gripping New Hampshire. “The state of New Hampshire is faced with a fentanyl and heroin crisis unlike ever before,” he said. “Those suffering from fentanyl and heroin addiction need treatment and recovery, but those that distribute and profit from spreading this misery need to be held accountable. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement in New Hampshire and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to aggressively seek and bring to justice anyone who distributes this poison.”

Barth’s sentencing is scheduled for September 14, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. before the United States District Court. He faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years behind bars, with the potential for life imprisonment. The investigation was a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Manchester Police Department, and Derry Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Georgiana L. Konesky is prosecuting the case. Barth’s fate now rests with the court, a stark reminder of the consequences of fueling the opioid epidemic.