Don Carnell Batchelor Jr., Distribution of Cocaine and Fentanyl, Virginia 2021

Goochland Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison

RICHMOND, Va. – In a tragic case of drugs leading to death, a Goochland man was sentenced to five years in prison for distributing cocaine and fentanyl that resulted in a fatal overdose of his friend.

According to court documents, on August 20, 2021, Don Carnell Batchelor Jr.’s friend, identified in court records as "SN," requested that Batchelor acquire cocaine and fentanyl for him. Batchelor obtained and provided the drugs to SN, who took the substances with him to visit family. SN used a portion of the cocaine and fentanyl Batchelor had provided, which caused SN’s fatal overdose. SN was found deceased in his parent’s home the following morning.

The medical examiner determined that the cause of death was cocaine and fentanyl toxicity. This case highlights the devastating consequences of drug abuse and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.

Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, announced the sentencing after Senior U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson imposed the sentence. The Virginia State Police assisted in the investigation of this case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia L. Norman prosecuting the case.

‘The sentence handed down today is a reminder that those who distribute deadly substances will be held accountable,’ said Lindsey Halligan, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. ‘We will continue to work tirelessly to combat the opioid epidemic and bring those responsible to justice.’

The case serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with drug use and the importance of seeking help for addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are resources available to help. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit www.samhsa.gov for more information.

Don Carnell Batchelor Jr. has been sentenced to five years in prison for distributing cocaine and fentanyl that led to a fatal overdose of his friend. The case highlights the devastating consequences of drug abuse and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.

Grimy Times will continue to provide updates on this and other cases. If you have any information or would like to share your story, please contact us at grimytimes@grimytimes.com.

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