Lakeland, Florida – A devastating wave of overdoses has hit the streets of Lakeland, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake. According to a recent indictment, 11 members of a local drug trafficking organization are facing federal charges for their role in distributing heroin and fentanyl, resulting in four overdose deaths and serious bodily injury to another individual.
Hasan Pearson, a/k/a ‘Julio,’ a/k/a ‘Hoov’ (35, Lakeland); Salik Stevens, a/k/a ‘Carlito,’ a/k/a ‘Dough’ (35, Lakeland); William Jones, a/k/a ‘Book’ (38, Mulberry); Dominic Matthews, a/k/a ‘Gargamel’ (30, Lakeland); Ladarius Oglesby, a/k/a ‘Hitta’ (23, Lakeland); Naboris Lampkin, a/k/a ‘Beezy’ (32, Lakeland); Jeminine Poe (37, Lakeland); Prince Grant (36, Lakeland); Justin Lee Martin (33, Lakeland); John Evit Brown (51, Lakeland); and Dalyshia Dexter (27, Lakeland) are each charged with conspiracy to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin, 400 grams of fentanyl, and 100 grams of a fentanyl analogue.
The indictment alleges that these individuals were part of a conspiracy to distribute heroin and fentanyl in the Middle District of Florida from at least March 2016 through August 30, 2017. During this time, the distribution of these substances resulted in four deaths and serious bodily injury to another individual.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Lakeland Police Department, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Hardee County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
The indictment highlights the devastating impact of fentanyl and heroin on our communities. The use of these substances has led to a rise in overdose deaths and serious bodily injury. We must take action to prevent the distribution of these substances and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
The 11 defendants are facing serious charges and a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. The outcome of this case will depend on the evidence presented and the verdict of the jury.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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