Federal authorities took down a major fentanyl trafficking operation in Washington D.C. last week, charging Ricardo Rush, 32, with distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court documents, Rush was at the helm of a lucrative fentanyl trafficking ring that brought in over $100,000 in profit in the past year alone. The operation was shut down after a months-long investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department.
Rush, a native of Washington D.C., was taken into custody without incident and appeared before U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss for his initial hearing. He is currently being held without bail pending trial.
The indictment alleges that Rush used various online platforms to sell fentanyl to customers across the country, often using coded language to avoid detection by law enforcement. Authorities seized several electronics devices, including laptops and smartphones, that were used to facilitate the operation.
Prosecutors have charged Rush with one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, a serious felony offense that carries up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million.
Rush is represented by Jared English, Diane Aimee Shrewsbury, and Elizabeth Ann Mullin, all experienced federal defense attorneys. A trial date has not yet been set.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew M. Graves commended the efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation and vowed to continue cracking down on those who seek to profit from the opioid epidemic.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Federal Court
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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