Reagan T. Fondren Acting United States Attorney for the Western District Of Tennessee | U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee
Andrew Starks, a 44-year-old resident of Memphis, Tennessee, has been indicted on charges of distributing fentanyl leading to the death of an individual. This announcement was made by Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee.
Chief Cerelyn 'CJ' Davis from the Memphis Police Department stated, "This indictment is the result of intentional and strategic collaboration between the Memphis Police Department and our federal partners. We remain committed to investigating and prosecuting those who distribute fentanyl and other illegal drugs that put lives at risk."
The indictment was issued by a federal grand jury on May 15, 2025. It alleges that Starks distributed fentanyl around December 22, 2022, which resulted in a fatality. If found guilty, Starks could face a federal prison sentence ranging from a minimum of 20 years to life imprisonment. Additionally, he may incur fines up to $1 million and be subjected to at least three years of supervised release following his imprisonment. It is noted that there is no parole in the federal system.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Organized Crime Unit Heroin Opiate Response Team (HORT) of the Memphis Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Wendy K. Cornejo is prosecuting this case.
It is important to note that charges and allegations in an indictment are not evidence but accusations of criminal conduct. The defendant remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt through due process. If convicted, sentencing will consider various factors unique to this case including any prior criminal records, role in the offense, and characteristics of the violation.
For further details or inquiries, media relations can be contacted at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Updates from the U.S. Attorney’s Office are available on Facebook or X under @WDTNNews.
