Niagara Falls Fentanyl Dealer Gets Over 8 Years

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Jermaine McQueen, 47, of Niagara Falls, is headed to federal prison after being sentenced today for flooding the streets with poison. U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara handed down a 106-month sentence to McQueen, convicted of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

The bust, a coordinated effort between multiple law enforcement agencies, revealed McQueen wasn’t dealing in small amounts. Investigators, executing search warrants on August 28, 2024, raided locations tied to McQueen and uncovered a significant stash: approximately 405 grams of cocaine, a staggering 300 grams of fentanyl, and six grams of crack cocaine. This wasn’t just personal use; the sheer volume screamed trafficking.

But the drugs weren’t the only evidence. Alongside the narcotics, authorities seized $10,625 in cash and a collection of jewelry – the dirty money and spoils of a dangerous trade. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch detailed how undercover officers also made controlled purchases of both fentanyl and cocaine directly from McQueen, solidifying the case against him.

“This sentencing should send a clear message,” stated a source close to the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We’re coming after those who prey on our communities by peddling this deadly fentanyl. McQueen thought he could profit from addiction and despair, but he was wrong.” The investigation revealed a network, and authorities aren’t ruling out further charges against potential co-conspirators.

The takedown was a joint operation involving the FBI under Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Mark Grimm, the Niagara Falls Police Department led by Superintendent Nick Ligammari, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department under Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the North Tonawanda Police Department with Chief Keith Glass at the helm, the New York State Police, directed by Major Amie Feroleto, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department under Sheriff John Garcia. It’s a rare display of inter-agency cooperation, and a clear indication of the seriousness with which authorities are treating the fentanyl crisis.

McQueen’s 106-month sentence is a hard sentence, but it barely scratches the surface of the damage he inflicted. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments, including potential asset forfeiture and the pursuit of anyone else involved in McQueen’s drug operation. This is a grim reminder that the fentanyl trade continues to claim lives and tear apart families, and the fight is far from over.