Nikolas Kerest U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont
A man from Brooklyn, New York, is facing serious charges related to drug manufacturing and distribution following a federal grand jury indictment. Dontayveus Thomas, 32, was charged on April 3, 2025, with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute cocaine base and fentanyl, alongside possession with intent to distribute these substances and cocaine.
Thomas's arraignment took place before United States Magistrate Judge Judith G. Dein. He remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.
Court records indicate that the investigation began on February 25, 2023, when the Winooski Fire Department responded to a fire alarm and uncovered evidence of narcotics production in a Winooski apartment. Law enforcement then conducted a search, revealing evidence supporting drug manufacturing activities in the residence. Officers discovered approximately 398.3 grams of cocaine, 179.4 grams of cocaine base, and 130.382 grams of fentanyl. Subsequent investigations linked Thomas to the drug production and possession of the substances.
The United States Attorney's Office clarified that an indictment is comprised of allegations, and Thomas is considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, Thomas faces a potential sentence of up to 40 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 5 years. The final sentence would be determined by the District Court in accordance with United States Sentencing Guidelines and statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher praised the investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Winooski Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joshua L. Banker, with Natasha Sen, Esq. defending Thomas.
