Helena Drug Kingpin Sentenced to Over 10 Years

GREAT FALLS – Helena’s David Alan Moorse, 39, was handed a 148-month prison sentence today for his role in trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme.

In April 2025, Moorse pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. His downfall began when law enforcement received word that he was distributing fentanyl in Montana, a revelation confirmed by photos of a brick of the deadly substance Moorse shared with a source.

On January 9, 2025, Moorse was arrested at a Helena casino for a probation violation, his vehicle containing 94 grams of meth, 106 grams of fentanyl pills, and 25 grams of fentanyl powder. He confessed to selling small amounts daily, just enough to fuel his personal drug habit, despite the substantial stash found in his car.

Moorse denied widespread distribution, but police uncovered messages on his phone detailing the sale of meth and fentanyl. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, with the FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force leading the investigation.

This sentencing is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence, ensuring safer neighborhoods for all. Learn more about PSN at Justice.gov/PSN.