Paul Tony Billingsley, Distribution of Fentanyl Causing Death, Nebraska 2024

Omaha Man Convicted of Fentanyl Trafficking Resulting in Death

In a devastating blow to the community, a jury in Omaha, Nebraska, has convicted 65-year-old Paul ‘Tony’ Billingsley of distributing fentanyl that caused a fatal overdose. The charges stem from two incidents in May 2024.

According to evidence presented at trial, on May 6, 2024, Billingsley sold fentanyl to co-defendant Elissa Larson. Within the hour, Larson distributed the fentanyl to a victim who overdosed and died. A family member later found the victim.

Law enforcement utilized a confidential informant to conduct a controlled purchase of fentanyl from Billingsley on May 24, 2024. The purchase was part of an ongoing investigation into the distribution of fentanyl in the Omaha area.

Billingsley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison for the distribution causing death charge and a maximum sentence of 20 years for the distribution of fentanyl charge. He will be sentenced on April 17, 2026.

Co-defendant Elissa Larson has pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and will be sentenced on February 20, 2026. The case was investigated by the Overdose Drug Taskforce, a collaborative effort between the Drug Enforcement Administration, Nebraska State Patrol, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Omaha Police Department.

The conviction is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of fentanyl on families and communities. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is often laced into other substances, making it difficult to detect and increasing the risk of overdose.

Billingsley, whose full name is Paul Tony Billingsley, will have to face the consequences of his actions. His distribution of fentanyl resulted in the loss of life, and now he will have to pay the price.

The investigation into the distribution of fentanyl in the Omaha area continues. The Overdose Drug Taskforce remains committed to disrupting the flow of fentanyl and bringing those responsible to justice.

This case serves as a warning to those who would seek to profit from the sale of fentanyl: the consequences are severe, and the risk of being caught is high.

Billingsley’s conviction is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement to combat the opioid epidemic. The community can rest assured that those who would seek to harm others through the sale of fentanyl will be held accountable.

The sentencing of Billingsley is scheduled for April 17, 2026. In the meantime, the community can take comfort in knowing that justice is being served.

In related news, co-defendant Elissa Larson has pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and will be sentenced on February 20, 2026.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ne/pr/jury-convicts-omaha-man-distribution-fentanyl-causing-death