Fatal Fentanyl Sale in Erie Exposed

A devastating crime has shaken the city of Erie, Pennsylvania. Derrick Lamont Hemphill, Sr., 30, has pleaded guilty to selling fentanyl that led to the death of K.A.J. on November 26, 2017.

According to court documents, Hemphill sold the deadly substance on that fateful day. The indictment further alleged that he possessed fentanyl and a heroin/fentanyl mixture with the intent to distribute.

Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers is leading the prosecution against Hemphill. The investigation involved a multi-agency effort, including the Erie County District Attorney’s Office County Detective Bureau, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office Drug Task Force, the Millcreek Township Police Department, and the Erie Police Department, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The guilty plea was made before United States District Judge David S. Cercone, who scheduled sentencing for August 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, or both.

Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offense and Hemphill’s prior criminal history, if any.

The case serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and the devastating consequences of its use. Our thoughts are with the loved ones of K.A.J. who lost their life to this senseless crime.

As a community, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to combat the opioid crisis and bring those responsible to justice.

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