Lake Worth Man Charged in Fentanyl Death
A 24-year-old man from Lake Worth has been charged with distributing fentanyl, a controlled substance that was ingested and caused the death of another individual.
Christopher Sharod Massena, of Palm Beach County, was indicted on one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, four counts of distribution of heroin, and one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin.
According to court records, on February 18, 2016, Massena distributed fentanyl to a 23-year-old man who died of acute fentanyl toxicity shortly after ingesting the substance. On four separate occasions, Massena distributed heroin and heroin mixed with fentanyl to an undercover police officer. On April 21, 2016, Massena possessed heroin with the intent to distribute the narcotic.
If convicted of the narcotics distribution resulting in death, Massena faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years to life in prison, to be followed by supervised release and a potential fine of up to $1 million dollars. If convicted of the additional charges, Massena faces a maximum statutory term of 20 years’ imprisonment, to be followed by supervised release and a potential fine of up to $1 million dollars.
“Fentanyl is another dangerous face of the illegal narcotics trade,” stated U.S. Attorney Wifredo Ferrer. “It is a controlled substance that is up to 100 times stronger than morphine and can be lethal, even in very small doses. As a community, we must be vigilant and educate ourselves and others regarding the dangers associated with all drug abuse.”
Massena was ordered held without bond following a pre-trial detention hearing. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci. An indictment is merely an allegation and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The DEA, PBSO, and WPBPD were commended for their investigative efforts. The FBI also provided assistance in the case. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.
This case is a reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of holding those responsible for its distribution accountable. As the community continues to grapple with the opioid epidemic, it is crucial that we work together to prevent the spread of fentanyl and other deadly substances.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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