The U.S. Attorney’s Office for District of Colorado is sounding the alarm over the increase of fentanyl-related deaths in the state, providing an update on the dangers of the drug and measures being taken to hold the drug makers and dealers accountable.
In an April 7 news release, the office noted federal law provides for a minimum 20-year prison sentence for anyone convicted of distributing or conspiring to distribute fentanyl that results in a death. The release noted the maximum sentence is life in prison. U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan said the drugs are lethal to the state’s population, including children.
“In the four months I’ve been U.S. attorney, it’s been astonishing to watch what is happening with fentanyl. It is a public health crisis and a public safety crisis,” Finegan said in the release. “Fentanyl is dangerous, scary and deadly. Our offices are taking aggressive measures to use every tool at our disposal to prosecute anyone who makes or distributes this deadly drug. Our intent is to prosecute dealers and hold them accountable.”
FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Michael Schneider noted the FBI’s Denver office has made it a priority to target drug trafficking organizations, while officials note drugs like fentanyl are known to be in the state. According to the release, working with other law enforcement agencies can ensure they can take on any criminal entities that are dealing the drugs.
According to the release, Undersheriff Joe Roybal noted the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is looking forward to working with local, state and federal authorities to curb the flow of drugs and prevent potential overdose deaths locally. Roybal also noted his agency, which serves nearly 800,000 residents in the county, is committed to making the region a safe community for Coloradans.
