Bradley Commerford, Heroin Distribution, Connecticut 2016

The Grimy Times has learned that Bradley Commerford, 20, of Derby, has been sentenced to 71 months in federal prison for distributing heroin that caused a fatal overdose in February 2016.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Commerford was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 71 months of imprisonment, followed by six years of supervised release. Judge Thompson also ordered Commerford to perform 150 hours of community service while on supervised release.

The matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, Derby Police Department and Shelton Police Department investigated two non-fatal heroin overdoses that occurred in Shelton on February 16, 2016, and one fatal overdose that occurred in Derby on February 17, 2016. The Derby overdose resulted in the death of a 23-year-old male.

The investigation identified Commerford as the heroin source of supply in all three overdose cases. The investigation also revealed that Commerford sold heroin to a 16-year-old individual who did not overdose.

U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly said, ‘While this defendant has faced difficulties and struggled with addiction himself, his reckless behavior cannot be excused. He regularly distributed heroin to teenagers and sold heroin after being convicted in state court of several serious felony offenses.’

DEA Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Ferguson added, ‘Those suffering from the disease of heroin addiction need access to treatment and recovery, but those responsible for distributing lethal drugs like heroin and fentanyl to the citizens of Connecticut need to be held accountable for their actions.’

Commerford has been detained since his arrest on February 18, 2016. On May 6, 2016, he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of heroin to an individual who is under 21 years of age.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Spector.

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