Prince George’s Fentanyl Kingpin Shelby Sentenced to 70 Months

Greenbelt, Maryland – In a heavy-handed blow against drug trafficking, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis has sentenced Roddrick Navara Shelby, 48, of Laurel, Maryland, to 70 months in federal prison for distributing over 40 grams of fentanyl.

The sentencing was announced by Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, joined by Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the DEA – Washington Division and Chief Marc R. Yamada of the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD).

Shelby’s downfall began in November 2024 when the DEA and MCPD launched an investigation into his suspected fentanyl trafficking activities. The investigation culminated in three controlled purchases, where Shelby sold approximately 500 blue “M30” pills to an undercover source. These pills, which mimicked legitimate oxycodone hydrochloride tablets, were later confirmed by laboratory analysis to contain fentanyl.

Over the course of the investigation, Shelby sold a staggering 1,471 fentanyl pills, or more than 150 grams of a substance containing fentanyl, to the confidential source. On March 20, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Shelby’s residence, uncovering assorted ammunition, firearms, and what appeared to be cocaine.

U.S. Attorney Hayes commended both the DEA and MCPD for their diligent work in bringing Shelby to justice. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan S. McKoy and Elizabeth Wright were also thanked for their efforts in prosecution.

For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and community outreach resources, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.