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Massachusetts Man Trades Firearms for Fentanyl in Rhode Island
A Franklin, MA, man has admitted to engaging in a disturbing trade: exchanging firearms for fentanyl in Rhode Island. According to authorities, Timothy J. Valle, 37, of Franklin, MA, traveled to Rhode Island at least four times to trade guns for the deadly opioid.
Between December 2018 and November 2020, Valle sent photos of his firearms to an individual he knew was involved in selling drugs, proposing a trade for fentanyl. On at least four occasions, Valle agreed to the trade and, after destroying the serial numbers, exchanged his firearms for fentanyl.
Valle appeared in U.S. District Court in Providence on [Unknown] and pleaded guilty to possessing or receiving a firearm with a removed serial number. This charge is a serious offense, as it not only puts the defendant at risk but also the public.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys William J. Ferland and Ly T. Chin. Acting United States Attorney Richard B. Myrus commended the FBI for their assistance in the investigation.
Valle is scheduled to be sentenced on August 20, 2021. The exact sentence or outcome is not yet known. It is essential to note that trading firearms for fentanyl is a serious crime with severe consequences.
The investigation and prosecution of this case highlight the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis and the dangers of gun violence. By pursuing cases like this, law enforcement agencies aim to reduce the flow of illicit firearms and opioids into our communities.
As this case demonstrates, trading firearms for fentanyl is a serious offense with significant consequences. It is crucial for individuals to report suspicious activity and for law enforcement to continue their efforts to keep our communities safe.
Key Facts
- State: Rhode Island
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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