U.S. Attorney Richard D. Westphal | U.S. Department of Justice
A federal grand jury in Des Moines has issued a three-count indictment against five individuals for offenses related to fentanyl trafficking. The charges follow an extensive investigation into the distribution of fentanyl in the Des Moines area.
The individuals charged are Devonte Darnell Hassell, also known as “Domo,” “Dom,” and “Rose,” 28; Ryan Redmond, also known as “Chiefy,” 31; Kevin Stanley Harris, Jr., also known as “Rylo” and “Big Hands,” 42; Adonis Angel Devora, 43; and Ricky Jamall Ellis, 30. They face various charges including conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl, with potential sentences ranging from five years to life imprisonment depending on their involvement and prior convictions.
The arrests took place on December 18, 2024, with four occurring in Des Moines and one in Houston, Texas. On the same day, authorities executed thirteen federal search warrants leading to the seizure of approximately 610 grams of heroin/fentanyl mixture, around 135 grams of methamphetamine, about 260 grams of marijuana, along with nineteen firearms and over $13,000 in cash.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa announced the charges. The investigation was conducted by multiple agencies including the Des Moines Police Department, United States Postal Inspection Service, FBI Des Moines Central Iowa Gang Task Force (CIGTF), and others from both state and local levels.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative aimed at dismantling high-level drug traffickers and criminal organizations through a coordinated effort involving federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
