An Akron man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for selling fentanyl obtained from China that resulted in a fatal overdose, law enforcement officials said. Leroy Shuarod Steele, 36, pled guilty earlier this year to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl.
The fentanyl Steele distributed resulted in the fatal overdose of a person identified only as T.R. on March 21, 2016 in Akron, according to court documents. This tragic event highlights the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of holding those who distribute it accountable.
Steele obtained fentanyl from suppliers in China and then distributed the drug to people in Akron, Fairlawn and elsewhere, according to court documents. This case is a stark reminder of the international scope of the opioid crisis and the need for law enforcement to work together to combat it.
“Mr. Steele’s actions resulted in the death of another person,” Acting U.S. Attorney David A. Sierleja said. “Those who profit from selling the heroin and opioids that have devastated our state will be held accountable for their actions.” This statement underscores the commitment of law enforcement to prosecuting those who contribute to the opioid epidemic.
Akron Police Chief James Nice said: “Keeping this guy behind bars for two decades keeps the residents of Summit County safer.” This sentiment is echoed by many in the community who are concerned about the impact of drug trafficking on public safety.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Linda H. Barr following an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Akron Police Department and the Fairlawn Police Department. The cooperation between these agencies is a key factor in the successful prosecution of Steele and the disruption of the fentanyl distribution network.
The sentencing of Leroy Steele serves as a warning to those who would engage in similar activities. It highlights the severe consequences of distributing fentanyl and the commitment of law enforcement to protecting the public from the dangers of opioid trafficking. As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities across the country, cases like this one demonstrate the importance of a concerted effort to combat it.
RELATED: Akron Man Admits Selling China-Sourced Fentanyl That Killed User
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
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