Terrance Saunders, Heroin Distribution, Connecticut 2018

Waterbury Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Charge in Shelton Overdose Case

Terrance Saunders, 33, of Waterbury, Connecticut, has pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin in connection with a 2016 Shelton overdose case. The case marks the latest development in an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.

The investigation began in 2016, after a 45-year-old female victim was pronounced dead at a Shelton residence following a suspected overdose. Investigators collected evidence, including folds containing suspected heroin, from the scene. Analysis of the victim’s cell phone revealed numerous contacts, including multiple text messages between the victim and Saunders, which led to the identification of Saunders as a key suspect.

Further investigation revealed that Saunders had sold heroin and fentanyl to the victim, and that he had been in contact with an associate, Rashad Johnson, who also sold the victim narcotics. Saunders was arrested on a federal criminal complaint in December 2018 and has been released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.

Johnson, of Waterbury, pleaded guilty to the same charge in June 2019 and awaits sentencing. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas P. Morabito.

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the Shelton, Ansonia and Monroe Police Departments. Saunders is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant on October 16, 2019, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

The guilty plea marks the latest success in the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic in Connecticut. The case serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of heroin and opioid use, and the importance of holding those responsible accountable for their actions.

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