Related Federal Cases
- Jeffrey Tavarez, Fentanyl and Heroin Trafficking, Connecticut 2021 · Connecticut
- Brian Evans, Fentanyl Distribution, Possession of Guns, Connecticut 2021 · Connecticut
- Christopher M. Liscio, Oxycodone and Cocaine Trafficking, Connecticut 2020 · Connecticut
- Jimmy Flores, Drug Trafficking and Firearm Offenses, Connecticut 2020 · Connecticut
- Darwin J. Gonzalez Reyes, Fentanyl and Heroin Trafficking, Massachusetts 2021 · Puerto Rico
Prison Contraband Trafficking in Rhode Island
PROVIDENCE – In a shocking incident, Brian Slutzkin, a 41-year-old inmate housed at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility in Central Falls, Rhode Island, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 19, 2025, on charges alleging that, while incarcerated, he possessed contraband and multiple controlled substances with the intent to distribute.
According to charging documents, a search of Slutzkin allegedly revealed that he had a sock hidden on his person that contained seven balloons crafted out of latex gloves. Examination of the contents of the balloons showed that they contained distributable quantities of a powder containing fentanyl, pills containing oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen, strips containing buprenorphine and naloxone, and marijuana.
Slutzkin, also known as Lello Brian Bongiorno, is charged with possessing contraband in prison (controlled substances) and with possession of those controlled substances with the intent to distribute them to others. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ronald R. Gendron.
The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and investigators at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility. A federal criminal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Slutzkin’s case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of prison contraband trafficking in the state of Rhode Island. The Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility has long been a focal point of concerns regarding the smuggling of contraband into the facility.
The investigation and subsequent indictment of Slutzkin are a testament to the hard work and dedication of law enforcement officials in Rhode Island. The people of Rhode Island have a right to feel safe, and it’s the duty of law enforcement to ensure that those rights are protected.
Defendant: Brian Slutzkin, aka Lello Brian Bongiorno
Criminal Charges: Possessing contraband in prison (controlled substances), Possession of those controlled substances with the intent to distribute them to others
City and State: Providence, Rhode Island
Date: November 19, 2025
Outcome: Currently being prosecuted
Key Facts
- State: Rhode Island
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Drug Trafficking|Violent CrimeDrug Trafficking|Violent CrimeDrug Trafficking|Violent CrimeDrug Trafficking|Violent Crime