Courtney Linwood “Blaze” Matthews, 40, of Fayetteville, has been sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for leading a drug trafficking organization that distributed large amounts of cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl across Eastern North Carolina. Matthews also pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and laundering drug proceeds through vehicle purchases and other assets.
“Linwood “Blaze” Matthews pleaded guilty to possessing and selling enough fentanyl to kill most of Fayetteville along with 9.5 kg of heroin and 839 kg of cocaine which is 1,854 pounds and is nearly the weight of a Mitsubishi Mirage,” said U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle. “Blaze flooded the area with dangerous opioids and narcotics that hurt Fayetteville families. Now thanks to their tireless work, our law enforcement partners have put that fire out making the community safer.”
“The amount of illegal drugs “Blaze” Matthews is responsible for pumping into our community is staggering. The FBI and our partners are unwavering in our fight against violent crime on our streets,” said James C. Barnacle Jr., the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina.
According to court documents, the investigation by the Fayetteville Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other agencies identified Matthews as the leader of a major drug operation. He coordinated with several co-conspirators to import and distribute kilograms of narcotics in Cumberland and Robeson counties. Records show he had previously been convicted for conspiracy to distribute drugs in the Eastern District of North Carolina in 2008.
In September 2023, law enforcement conducted a controlled purchase involving one kilogram of cocaine from Matthews and co-defendant Anthony Mack at a property owned by Matthews in Fayetteville. By spring 2024, investigators tracked his supply sources and distribution network. Authorities seized significant quantities of drugs, packaging materials, over $213,000 in cash, firearms, and business records indicating that Matthews was channeling drug money into vehicles and other assets.
The evidence revealed that Matthews operated not only as a trafficker but also ran a car rental business using assets bought with illicit proceeds while managing stash houses and directing others involved in his operation.
Ellis Boyle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina announced the sentencing after it was handed down by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The case was investigated by multiple agencies including the FBI, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Fayetteville Police Department, and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Webb prosecuted the case.
