Attorney Prim F. Escalona | U.S. Department of Justice
A Minnesota man, Christopher Louis Bass, 46, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for his involvement in an international drug trafficking operation that led to the death of a Tuscaloosa man. The sentencing was announced by United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona and U.S. Postal Inspection Service Inspector-in-Charge Mona Hernandez from the Houston Division.
Bass was sentenced by U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler after pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl. He admitted that his actions resulted in the death of Dr. Louis Burgio, a psychology professor at both the University of Alabama and the University of Michigan. In 2004, Dr. Burgio was recognized as the Distinguished Research Professor by the University of Alabama Board of Trustees for his contributions to the Applied Gerontology Program.
U.S. Attorney Escalona stated, "This case reminds us all too clearly that drug distribution is not a victimless crime." She emphasized her office's commitment to prosecuting individuals who distribute harmful substances in communities across north Alabama.
Mona Hernandez highlighted the efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in combating illicit drugs through mail channels: “The overdose death in this case is a stark reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and why the Postal Inspection Service remains committed to eradicating these illicit substances from the U.S. Mail and consequently safeguarding our community.” She further added that Bass' sentence should act as a deterrent against such criminal activities.
The investigation involved multiple agencies including the Tuscaloosa Police Department, Tuscaloosa County Violent Crimes Unit, United States Postal Inspection Services from Birmingham and Twin Cities, East Central Drug Task Force, and Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crimes Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Alan S. Kirk prosecuted this case.
