Nigel Gray, a 45-year-old resident of Raleigh, North Carolina, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison with an additional five years of supervised release. This sentence follows his guilty plea on June 28, 2024, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute significant quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. At the time of these offenses, Gray was already under federal supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar commented on the case stating, “This case reflects our commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks—particularly those connected to cartels—and holding accountable those who fuel addiction and violence in the Eastern District.” He emphasized ongoing collaboration with state and federal partners to combat narcotics distribution.
Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Charlotte, which oversees operations in North and South Carolina, noted the impact of Gray's sentencing: “This sentencing marks significant progress in our relentless efforts to shield our communities from the harmful effects of drug trafficking." He highlighted the confiscation of fentanyl and cocaine as part of broader efforts to enhance neighborhood safety.
Gray's connections to the Sinaloa Cartel were uncovered during investigations by law enforcement agencies. On February 23, 2023, Homeland Security Investigations identified a package containing nearly five kilograms of cocaine en route from Corona, California, to Greenville, North Carolina. A controlled delivery was executed on February 27 when a child retrieved the package linked back to Gray.
Further investigations revealed Gray's involvement in multiple narcotics transactions throughout 2023. In one instance on August 23, agents observed him meeting individuals in Raleigh; subsequent searches yielded substantial quantities of fentanyl and cocaine. Additional surveillance led agents to seize over two and a half kilograms of narcotics at a Dollar General parking lot in Elizabeth City.
Gray was arrested on March 13, 2024. Prior investigations had already linked him to a residence equipped with drug processing materials and firearms. Evidence also pointed towards financial transactions involving wire transfers to Mexico.
His criminal history includes convictions for various offenses dating back as far as 2005. These include charges related to firearms possession by a felon and conspiracy involving heroin distribution.
The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar following sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The investigation involved several agencies including Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection among others. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Severo and Katherine Englander prosecuted the case.
