COLUMBUS, OH – Diamondo Valdez Butler, 39, of Columbus, is facing federal charges after allegedly peddling the fentanyl that killed a Gahanna man, authorities announced today. Butler, known on the streets as “Yellow,” was taken into custody last night following a joint operation by the DEA and Gahanna Division of Police.
The indictment details that on April 1, 2020, Butler distributed fentanyl which ultimately proved fatal. The victim, a Gahanna resident, allegedly purchased the deadly substance with a friend at a gas station on Cleveland Avenue. Each man contributed $35 towards a $70 transaction, splitting the fentanyl equally. The victim later used his portion at home and was found unresponsive the following morning, with the coroner ruling the cause of death as fentanyl intoxication.
This isn’t the only alleged instance of Butler’s involvement with the deadly opioid. Authorities claim Butler distributed fentanyl on multiple occasions in April and August of 2020. The nine-count indictment, returned on August 25th, suggests a pattern of reckless disregard for human life, fueled by profit.
“Fentanyl trafficking is like playing Russian Roulette,” stated U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers. “Any given dose can kill someone, and if it does, that trafficker will face a minimum of 20 years in prison.” DeVillers’ statement underscores the severity of the charges and the federal government’s commitment to tackling the fentanyl crisis.
Distributing narcotics that result in death or serious bodily injury carries a stiff penalty – a federal sentence ranging from 20 years to life behind bars. DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin emphasized the agency’s dedication to pursuing those responsible for drug-related deaths. “These charges are a reminder of the lethality of fentanyl,” Martin said. “The DEA continues to prioritize investigating drug dealing that results in death.”
The charges were announced jointly by U.S. Attorney David M. DeVillers, DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin, and Gahanna Division of Police Chief Jeffrey Spence. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Prichard is handling the prosecution. It’s crucial to remember that an indictment contains allegations only, and Butler is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it develops.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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