John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that CURTIS DRAUGHN, also known as “Kirk," 63, of New Haven, pleaded guilty yesterday in New Haven federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, heroin.
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.
According to court documents and statements made in court, following the December 2016 overdose death of a 33-year-old New Haven man, investigators determined that the victim had called “Kirk" prior to his overdose. In May 2017, investigators contacted “Kirk," who was identified to be Draughn, asking about purchasing heroin. In May, June and August 2017, investigators made three controlled purchases of heroin from Draughn.
Draughn was arrested on Oct. 25, 2017, and a federal grand jury later returned an indictment charging him with the three heroin sales.
The charge of distribution of heroin carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. Draughn is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford on Feb. 14, 2019.
Draughn is released on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing.
This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Haven Task Force and the New Haven Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed and Law Student Intern John Super.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
