Brian L. Williams, Fentanyl Sales, Ohio 2016

Two Akron men have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their roles in selling fentanyl, a highly addictive and deadly opioid. Brian L. Williams, 54, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, while Terrance L. Ford, 50, received a 10-year prison sentence. Both men were found guilty of selling the potent substance, which has ravaged communities across the state.

The case against Williams and Ford began in 2016, when detectives from the Akron Police Department’s Narcotics Unit and agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration searched their home and recovered over 100 grams of a substance containing fentanyl. The search also uncovered several fentanyl patches, according to court documents.

“Drug dealers such as these are responsible for the wave of death that has plagued our state over the past few years,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja. “Aggressive enforcement, combined with education, prevention and treatment, are all key parts to our comprehensive strategy to combating this epidemic.”

The prosecution of this case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Aaron P. Howell, following an investigation by the Akron Police Department and the DEA. The sentences handed down by U.S. District Judge John Adams reflect the gravity of the crime and the devastating impact it has had on communities across the state.

The sale of fentanyl has become a major concern in Ohio, with many overdose deaths linked to the substance. The sentencing of Williams and Ford serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of engaging in this type of activity.

The investigation and prosecution of this case highlight the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in combating the opioid epidemic. By working together, these agencies can make a significant impact in reducing the availability of deadly substances like fentanyl and saving lives.

As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities across the state, the sentencing of Williams and Ford serves as a warning to others who would engage in this type of activity. The consequences of selling fentanyl are severe, and those who engage in this behavior can expect to face lengthy prison sentences.

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