Memphis, TN – In a shocking turn of events, Andrew Starks, 44, has been arrested and charged with distributing fentanyl which caused the death of one victim. The indictment, handed down by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2025, alleges that Starks distributed fentanyl on or about December 22, 2022, resulting in the tragic loss of life.
According to the indictment, Starks faces a term of federal imprisonment of not less than 20 years and not more than life. Additionally, he could be fined up to $1,000,000 and sentenced to a term of supervised release of at least three years after his time in custody. This is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of fentanyl distribution and the importance of holding those responsible accountable.
This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit Heroin Opiate Response Team (HORT). The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence. Starks is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.
The Memphis Police Department’s Interim Chief, Cerelyn ‘CJ’ Davis, praised the collaboration between the Memphis Police Department and federal partners. ‘This indictment is the result of intentional and strategic collaboration between the Memphis Police Department and our federal partners. We remain committed to investigating and prosecuting those who distribute fentanyl and other illegal drugs that put lives at risk,’ she said.
Assistant United States Attorney Wendy K. Cornejo will be prosecuting the case. The charges against Starks are a reminder that the U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to fighting against those who engage in illicit activities that put our communities at risk.
For more information, please contact the media relations team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.
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Key Facts
- State: Tennessee
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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