Lorenizo Reshaud Simmons, Fentanyl Trafficking, North Carolina 2023

Fentanyl Trafficking Ring Cracked in Eastern North Carolina

A federal judge in New Bern, North Carolina, has sentenced Lorenizo Reshaud Simmons, 33, to over 6 years in federal prison for possession with intent to sell over 40 grams of fentanyl. The conviction marks the latest in a string of crimes committed by Simmons, who is a convicted felon.

According to authorities, Simmons sold fentanyl in Halifax County from a residence he used to store and package his illicit drugs. The investigation, launched by the Halifax County Sheriff's Office in August 2022, involved three controlled buys of fentanyl from Simmons. On May 4, 2023, authorities executed a search warrant at Simmons' residence, finding over 300 grams of a fentanyl analogue, 90 milligrams of morphine, a digital scale, extended gun magazines, hundreds of bullets, and other drug paraphernalia.

Simmons' criminal history is marked by a series of convictions, including the sale of opiates and possession of oxycodone in 2018. Despite this history, Simmons continued to engage in fentanyl trafficking, putting the lives of his community at risk.

U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle condemned Simmons' actions, stating, 'Fentanyl kills kids. This repeat offender should have learned his lesson before, but he returned to this shameful exploitation of his own community. We should all join together in our close-knit Eastern North Carolina communities to reject this evil and keep our families together. Simple lesson: drugs kill, prison awaits: Do right.'

The investigation into Simmons' fentanyl trafficking operation was a collaborative effort between the Halifax County Sheriff's Office, the State Bureau of Investigation, and the Northampton County Sheriff's Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Dixon prosecuted the case.

Simmons' sentencing brings an end to a lengthy and complex investigation, but it also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of fentanyl trafficking on our communities. As authorities continue to crack down on fentanyl trafficking rings, it is essential that we remain vigilant and work together to keep our communities safe.

Defendant: Lorenizo Reshaud Simmons

Criminal Charges: Possession with intent to sell over 40 grams of fentanyl

City and State: New Bern, North Carolina

Exact Date: May 4, 2023

Sentence or Outcome: Over 6 years in federal prison

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ednc/pr/halifax-county-felon-sentenced-possessing-and-selling-fentanyl