Kalib Scott Powell, Fentanyl Distribution, Indiana 2019

EVANSVILLE, INDIANA - A deadly game of poison and profit has claimed another victim. Kalib Scott Powell, 25, of Evansville, Indiana, has been arrested and charged with Distributing a Schedule One Controlled Substance (Fentanyl), Resulting in Death.

The arrest is the result of a months-long investigation into the fentanyl-based overdose death of Jacilynn Holifield, 22, also of Evansville, which occurred on or about February 23, 2019. The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Evansville office of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, Evansville Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, Evansville Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service, and other law enforcement agencies with support from the Vanderburgh County Coroner’s Office.

According to the federal complaint, Powell is accused of selling fentanyl powder to Jacilynn Holifield on or about February 21, 2019 in Evansville. Holifield is believed to have used the fentanyl powder up to and through February 23, 2019. Holifield was found deceased on the morning of February 24, 2019. The cause of Holifield’s death has been ruled fentanyl intoxication by the forensic pathologist who conducted the autopsy.

“Tragedies such as these bring families and communities to their knees,” said Josh J. Minkler, the United States Attorney. “The Justice system is committed to devoting the resources of the federal government to upend these avoidable deaths through the aggressive prosecution of drug traffickers, but also through education, outreach and newly conceptualized partnership circles.”

Powell, if convicted, faces a possible sentence of 20 years to life in prison. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Evansville Police Department and the Evansville office of the DEA are urging the public to remain vigilant in the face of this deadly threat. “The public should be reminded that people who illegally use fentanyl are playing with their own life. Using this poison could result in a ‘death sentence,’” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian M. McKnight.

A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Powell is currently being held in the Vanderburgh County Jail pending a hearing. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank E. Dahl, III.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdin/pr/evansville-man-arrested-connection-fentanyl-overdose-death