Colten Romeo Thayer, Fentanyl Trafficking, Texas 2022

Colten Romeo Thayer, 20, Lands 10-Year Prison Sentence for Fentanyl Trafficking

AUSTIN, Texas – On a fateful day in August 2022, a routine traffic stop took an unexpected turn, leading to the arrest of 20-year-old Colten Romeo Thayer. The San Marcos native was subsequently sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

According to court documents, Thayer was apprehended on August 29, 2022, during a traffic stop. Upon inspecting his vehicle, Hays County Sheriff’s deputies stumbled upon a bag containing a whopping 11 grams of fentanyl. The authorities discovered that Thayer had been purchasing fentanyl pills from other dealers in and around Hays County for both personal use and to sell.

It was revealed that Thayer had been engaging in this illicit activity for some time, purchasing fentanyl from other dealers to supply his own needs and to make a profit. His actions posed a significant threat to public health and safety, as fentanyl is a highly potent and addictive substance.

Thayer’s co-defendant, Anthony Perez Rios, also pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl. Rios remains in federal custody, awaiting sentencing on May 23.

U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas made the announcement, highlighting the severity of the crime and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. The Drug Enforcement Administration and San Marcos Police Department conducted the investigation, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Gabriel Cohen prosecuted the case.

Thayer’s 10-year prison sentence serves as a stern reminder of the consequences of engaging in fentanyl trafficking. His actions not only put his own life at risk but also endangered the lives of those around him. As the opioid epidemic continues to plague the nation, cases like Thayer’s emphasize the need for continued vigilance and enforcement.

MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS

Drug Trafficking

Masoud Barzani, $30M Military Bribery, Beverly Hills Mansion Forfeiture, California 2022

Apr 22, 2026

Drug Trafficking

Leon Homero Hernandez, Methamphetamine Trafficking, New Mexico 2015

Nov 1, 2016

Drug Trafficking

Julio A. Rodriguez, Fentanyl Trafficking, New York 2023

Nov 21, 2022

Drug Trafficking

Amy Little, Unlawful Use of Communication Facility, West Virginia 2024

May 22, 2019