Samuel Elie, a 49-year-old resident of Stamford, has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for distributing narcotics. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford. Elie will also serve five years of supervised release following his imprisonment.
According to court records and statements made during the proceedings, Stamford Police began investigating Elie in November 2024 after learning he was selling fentanyl, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine from his home and vehicles. Investigators conducted three controlled purchases of fentanyl from Elie in December 2024 and January 2025.
Elie was arrested on state charges on January 22, 2025. A search of his residence at that time led to the discovery of approximately 152 grams of fentanyl, 215 grams of crack cocaine, 91 grams of powder cocaine, eight grams of methamphetamine, a gun magazine, and 50 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Authorities noted that Elie's criminal record includes felony convictions related to firearms, drugs, robbery, and other offenses. He has remained in custody since his arrest.
On September 29, 2025, Elie pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute at least 40 grams of fentanyl as well as a quantity of cocaine.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Stamford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary G. Vitale prosecuted the case.
"This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime," according to the announcement from David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut.
