A shocking case of fentanyl distribution has come to light in Martin, South Dakota, where a local resident has pleaded guilty to the crime.
Ashley Cottier, 36, of Martin, made the guilty plea before Chief U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on January 28, 2013.
Cottier was accused of distributing the highly potent opioid Fentanyl on or about June 6, 2012.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years’ imprisonment and/or a $1,000,000 fine.
The investigation into Cottier’s activities was a joint effort involving the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Justice Services, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Martin Police Department, and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura A. Shattuck.
A presentence investigation was ordered, and a sentencing date was set for May 7, 2013. Cottier was released on bond pending sentencing.
The guilty plea marks a significant blow to the illicit fentanyl trade in the region and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by these highly addictive substances.
Grimy Times will continue to monitor the case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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