CANAL FULTON, OH – William P. Lacey, 55, will spend the next 15 years of his life behind bars following a federal sentencing today, the Department of Justice announced. The Canal Fulton man was convicted of horrific charges: inducing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, and possessing substantial quantities of dangerous, synthetic drugs.
According to the indictment, Lacey, on two separate occasions in February 2013, actively persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor into participating in acts intended for visual depiction. The details of these acts, while shielded to protect the victim, are deeply disturbing and paint a picture of calculated exploitation. This wasn’t a moment of weakness; it was premeditated abuse.
But the depravity didn’t end there. Alongside the sex crimes, Lacey was found to be in possession of four kilograms of a-PVP – a highly potent synthetic cathinone, often referred to as “flakka” – and one kilogram of 4-MEC, another dangerous synthetic stimulant. These aren’t recreational drugs; they’re chemicals tearing apart communities and fueling addiction. The sheer volume suggests intent to distribute, amplifying the harm.
United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, Steven M. Dettelbach, delivered the sentencing announcement, highlighting the severity of the crimes. The case was meticulously built by Assistant United States Attorney Linda Barr, who relentlessly pursued justice. This conviction sends a clear message: predators and drug traffickers will be held accountable.
The investigation was a joint effort, demonstrating the power of interagency cooperation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force, alongside the dedicated officers of the Summit County Sheriff’s Office, worked tirelessly to gather evidence and build an airtight case against Lacey. Their commitment to protecting the vulnerable and removing dangerous individuals from the streets is commendable.
Lacey’s 15-year sentence offers a measure of relief, but it doesn’t erase the trauma inflicted on the victim. This case serves as a stark reminder of the insidious nature of both child exploitation and the devastating impact of synthetic drug trafficking. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing fight against these crimes.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Drug Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
