A man from Hooks, Texas, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for selling counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl, leading to a fatal overdose. The sentencing was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. of the Eastern District of Texas.
Henry Wayne Milligan, 28, faced charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl resulting in death. He was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert W. Schroeder, III, on April 2, 2025.
“The Eastern District of Texas will continue to aggressively prosecute those who distribute deadly drugs such as fentanyl in our communities and seek enhanced sentences commensurate with the tragic consequences and immeasurable losses suffered by victims and their families,” stated McGlothin, Jr.
Court documents revealed that Milligan sold what appeared to be prescription pills to a victim who was later found dead from a fentanyl overdose. Laboratory tests confirmed the pills contained fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. Milligan confessed to the crime following his arrest.
Texarkana's Police Department spokesperson, Shawn Vaughn, expressed appreciation for the prosecution's dedication, stating, “We sincerely appreciate the unwavering commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in prosecuting this case. Their dedication to seeking justice for the victim and holding those accountable who distribute deadly fentanyl is invaluable in our ongoing fight against this epidemic.” Vaughn also credited Detective Daniel Linn and the Texas Department of Public Safety for their roles in the investigation.
This case coincides with a public safety alert from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) about the increase in fake prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine. The DEA’s One Pill Can Kill campaign aims to educate the public on the dangers of counterfeit pills, encouraging the consumption of medications only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist.
The investigation involved cooperation between the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations Division and the Texarkana Texas Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.
