Akron Drug Dealer Sentenced to 20 Years for Fentanyl Overdose Death

AKRON, OHIO – In a chilling case of deadly dealing, Jurmaine A. Jeffries, 32, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced on Nov. 30, 2021, by Judge Solomon Oliver, Jr., to serve a mandatory minimum of 20 years in federal prison for selling fentanyl that led to a fatal overdose.

Jeffries was convicted following a two-week trial in April 2018 of distributing fentanyl resulting in death and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. He was caught selling the deadly drug to an Akron woman who overdosed on Sept. 16, 2015, inside a home on Goodyear Avenue.

The victim had called and texted Jeffries repeatedly on the day of her death, desperate for more drugs. Evidence from cell phone towers placed Jeffries near the scene at the time of the tragedy. Akron police detectives posing as the woman arranged another deal, leading to Jeffries’ arrest. He was caught with 38 grams of fentanyl.

This harrowing case has been a joint effort between the DEA and Akron Police Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan R. Miller overseeing the prosecution.

Jeffries’ sentencing sends a stark message about the deadly consequences of selling illegal drugs in Ohio, where the opioid crisis continues to claim lives at an alarming rate.

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