Fern Dowling, Crack Distribution Conspiracy, Maine 2023

Bangor, Maine – A devastating crack distribution conspiracy has been brought to justice in Penobscot County. Fern Dowling, a 40-year-old resident of Old Town, has been sentenced to 5½ years in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine base, commonly known as ‘crack.’

According to court records, the defendant distributed a staggering 7.8 kilograms of crack in Penobscot County and elsewhere between January 2010 and August 2013. She sold half-gram bags for $50 and gram bags for $100, transferring the proceeds of her sales to her source of supply in the New Haven, Connecticut area.

As part of the conspiracy, Dowling received cash and crack in exchange. Members of the conspiracy from New Haven included members of the Red Side Guerilla Brims, a violent street gang affiliated with the Almighty Blood Nation, a national street gang.

The case was investigated by the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and the New Haven, Connecticut Office of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the City of New Haven Department of Police Services.

Assistant United States Attorney Joel B. Casey can be reached for further information at (207) 945-0373.

U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Delahanty II announced the sentence, which was handed down by Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. in U.S. District Court.

The lengthy investigation and subsequent conviction serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of drug trafficking on our communities. Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and bring you updates as more information becomes available.

In related news, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency has announced a series of initiatives aimed at combating the spread of crack and other illicit substances in the state. Stay tuned for further details.

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