Deirdre M. Daly, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that GEORGE KINNEY, 34, of Plainfield, was arrested yesterday and charged in a criminal complaint with distributing fentanyl.
This matter stems from an ongoing statewide initiative targeting narcotics dealers who distribute heroin, fentanyl or opioids that cause death or serious injury to users.
KINNEY appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A.L. Merriam in New Haven and was ordered detained.
As alleged in court documents, on Aug. 31, 2016, the Plainfield Police Department responded to a report of an untimely death of a 38-year-old female at a hotel in Plainfield. At the scene, officers seized drug and non-drug evidence, including bags that appear to have contained heroin and/or fentanyl that were located in a bathroom garbage can. The investigation revealed that KINNEY had provided the drugs to the victim and her boyfriend shortly before the victim’s death.
At the time of his arrest, it is alleged that KINNEY possessed 40 bags of heroin and/or fentanyl, most of which had identical labeling to the bags found at the hotel. Forensic analysis of the bags revealed the presence of fentanyl.
The complaint charges KINNEY with possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of fentanyl, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.
U.S. Attorney Daly stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad and the Plainfield Police Department. The Tactical Diversion Squad includes members from the New Haven, Hamden, Greenwich, Shelton, Bristol, Vernon, Wilton, Milford, Monroe, Fairfield and Manchester Police Departments, and the Connecticut State Police.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John T. Pierpont, Jr.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
