Tampa, Florida – A Winter Haven man has pleaded guilty to distributing p-fluorofentanyl and methamphetamine, federal authorities announced today. Marcus Lutrell Walden, 36, faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison for the crime.
According to a plea agreement reached on February 14, 2024, Walden agreed to sell what he believed was methamphetamine and fentanyl, describing the substances as ‘ice cream’ and ‘mashed potatoes’ in communications with a confidential source in Winter Haven. He agreed to meet the source at a motel in Winter Haven to conduct the sale.
An analysis of the fentanyl by the DEA Laboratory revealed that it was actually para-fluorofentanyl, an analogue of fentanyl. Later that day, Walden sold a Taurus .22 caliber pistol to the confidential source.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Winter Haven Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David W.A. Chee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities. The program brings together law enforcement and community organizations to make neighborhoods safer.
Walden’s sentencing date has not yet been set. He faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison for the crime. The exact sentence will be determined by the court at a later date.
Walden’s plea agreement and the charges he faces have brought attention to the growing issue of p-fluorofentanyl and methamphetamine distribution in the state of Florida. Law enforcement agencies continue to work to reduce the availability of these substances and make communities safer.
Related Federal Cases
- Antony Junior Harris, Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Distribution, Florida 2022 · Georgia
- Bradleigh Wayne Carter, Methamphetamine Trafficking, Florida 2020 · Wyoming
- Donte McCray, Fentanyl Distribution, Florida 2021 · Oklahoma
- Myron D. Baker, Opioid Distribution, Ohio 2019 · Alabama
- Douglas Lanier Hogan, Armed Drug Dealer, Florida 2020 · Oklahoma
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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