Angel Valle, Fentanyl Distribution, Maine 2019

BANGOR, Maine—A deadly opioid crisis continues to grip Maine and the nation, with one Lebanon man being held accountable for his role in distributing the highly addictive drug. Angel Valle, 55, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and four years of supervised release for his crimes.

According to court records, an FBI investigation revealed that Valle distributed fentanyl in the Lebanon area. During the investigation, Valle and two associates sold fentanyl to a confidential informant on two occasions in May 2019. In total, Valle and his associates distributed approximately 500 grams of fentanyl to the informant.

The FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force of New Hampshire investigated the case, with the assistance of the Maine State Police. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case as part of the Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge.

Valle pleaded guilty in February 2020, admitting to his role in distributing the deadly synthetic opioid. The sentence handed down by Chief U.S. District Judge Jon D. Levy reflects the severity of the crime and the need to hold those responsible accountable.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by synthetic opioids and the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to combat it. As the nation struggles to come to terms with the opioid epidemic, cases like Valle’s highlight the need for continued vigilance and action.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to prioritize the prosecution of cases related to the distribution of synthetic opioids, working closely with law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle networks responsible for bringing these deadly substances onto the streets.

Angel Valle, 55, of Lebanon, Maine, was charged with distributing fentanyl. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison and four years of supervised release on [sentencing date].

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