Raleigh Drug Kingpin Nigel Gray Gets 24-Year Sentence

RALEIGH, N.C. – Nigel Gray, 45, has become the latest target in a relentless effort to dismantle drug trafficking networks as he was handed a 24-year sentence for his role in distributing deadly fentanyl and cocaine. The sentencing marks a significant victory for law enforcement agencies in their battle against the Sinaloa Cartel.

Gray, who was already on federal supervised release at the time of his arrest, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and five kilograms of cocaine. His connection to the Sinaloa Cartel was confirmed through law enforcement’s diligent investigation.

The grim details of Gray’s criminal enterprise were laid bare during the trial. On February 27, 2023, a child in Greenville, North Carolina, was used in a controlled delivery of nearly five kilograms of cocaine en route from California. Gray was identified as the person who arranged for its pickup, and further surveillance led to his arrest on March 13, 2024.

Agents recovered over two and a half kilograms of drugs during their investigation, including fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl, in a Dollar General parking lot in Elizabeth City. Gray’s Raleigh residence was also searched, revealing a kilogram press, drug packaging materials, firearms, and over two kilograms of fentanyl.

“This case reflects our commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks—particularly those connected to cartels—and holding accountable those who fuel addiction and violence,” Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar said. “We will continue to work with state and federal partners to stop the flow of deadly narcotics.”

Gray has a lengthy criminal history, including previous convictions for accessory after the fact, possession of a firearm by a felon, assault with a deadly weapon, and conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine.