Jonathan D. Ross U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas
Eight individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute and possess fentanyl with intent to distribute. The announcement was made by Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky handed down the sentences after each defendant pled guilty.
The defendants, indicted on August 1, 2023, include Jaylen Ester (aka Sumo), Adrian Perry, Miguel Thompson, James Chenault (aka LJ), Saundra Lunsford, Carma Brown, April Reyes, and Briana McElroy. All were charged with conspiracy related to fentanyl distribution.
Several defendants have significant criminal histories. Perry, Thompson, and Chenault are classified as career offenders. Perry's past includes drug-related convictions while Ester has previous convictions for burglary and robbery. During sentencing for Ester, evidence was presented regarding his arrest involving violent crimes.
Thompson's record includes multiple drug offenses and intimidating a witness among other charges. Chenault's history involves various drug offenses and assault charges.
Ross emphasized the seriousness of fentanyl distribution: "Because fentanyl is so deadly... our office will continue to regard the distribution of fentanyl as a violent crime which commands our office’s full attention."
The investigation revealed that from 2020 through December 2022, the defendants distributed fentanyl in central Arkansas areas. Law enforcement conducted several operations resulting in arrests and seizures of drugs including marijuana and methamphetamine alongside cash.
Special Agent Joshua Jackson from ATF New Orleans commented on the sentencing: “Sending career criminals like this to prison is another example of our commitment... The sentence imposed today sends a message to the community that drug traffickers will be held accountable.”
David Ewing from Russellville Police Department expressed pride in their role: “This outcome reflects our ongoing commitment... to combat the fentanyl crisis.”
Jeff Phillips from Fifth Judicial District acknowledged collaboration efforts: “Their cooperation with other local law enforcement... is so important in aggressively addressing criminal activity.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives led the investigation along with local law enforcement agencies.
